A fire that broke out at the casualty ward of Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (MCH) on Friday night has sparked controversy after five patient deaths were reported around the same time. Although local MLA T Siddique claimed that three of the patients died due to asphyxiation caused by smoke inhalation during the fire, the hospital authorities have refuted this allegation. The hospital’s superintendent stated that all five individuals were already in critical condition and that the fire was not the direct cause of their deaths.
According to hospital officials, thick smoke was first noticed around 7 PM, emerging from the UPS room located in the emergency department of the newly constructed block. This triggered panic, with patients, attendants, and staff fleeing the building. Visuals broadcast on local news channels showed patients being hurriedly moved on stretchers and ambulances to other locations.
Among the deceased were Gopalan (West Hill), Surendran (Vadakara), Gangadharan (Koyilandy), Ganga (West Bengal), and Nazeera (Wayanad). The hospital confirmed that one had been admitted after poison consumption and another was brought in dead following a suicide attempt. The remaining three will undergo autopsies after consulting their families.
Relatives of some patients, including Gopalan, alleged negligence during evacuation—claiming that life support systems like ventilators were disrupted, which may have contributed to their deaths. MLA Siddique echoed similar concerns on social media, specifically referring to the case of Nazeera, who was reportedly on ventilator support when moved out of the building and later died.
District Collector Snehil Kumar Singh stated that a preliminary inspection suggests the fire was caused by a short circuit in the UPS room. The electrical department is set to conduct a full investigation. Around 30 patients were shifted to private hospitals for continued care, while others remain at MCH.
In response to public concern, the health department has opened help desks at Kozhikode Medical College and the General Hospital to assist families of those affected. Contact numbers have been provided for inquiries: 9188920765 and 7356657221.
