Tragedy Strikes Jaipur: Fire in SMS Hospital ICU Claims Multiple Lives
- MGMMTeam
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
In a devastating incident on the night of October 5, 2025, a massive fire broke out in the trauma ICU of Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The blaze tragically claimed the lives of at least six patients and left five others in critical condition. The fire, believed to have been caused by a short circuit, has raised serious concerns about hospital safety protocols and emergency preparedness.
The Incident
The fire erupted late Sunday night in the neuro ICU of SMS Hospital, a major state-run medical facility. At the time, 24 patients were admitted, many of whom were in critical or comatose states. The rapid spread of smoke and toxic gases made evacuation challenging. Despite initial attempts by hospital staff to control the fire, the situation escalated before fire services arrived approximately an hour later. By then, six patients had succumbed to smoke inhalation and burns, with five others reported in critical condition.
Allegations of Negligence
Family members of the victims have alleged severe negligence on the part of the hospital staff. Eyewitnesses claim that doctors locked the ICU gates and fled the scene, leaving patients unattended. Additionally, reports indicate that fire alarms failed to activate, oxygen supply lines were delayed in shutting down, and essential firefighting equipment was either inadequate or non-functional. These allegations have sparked widespread outrage and demands for accountability.
Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "The loss of lives due to a fire tragedy at a hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is deeply saddening. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon".
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma visited the hospital to assess the situation and assured the public that steps were being taken to ensure patient safety. He confirmed that a high-level committee had been formed to investigate the cause of the fire and to review the hospital's safety measures.
Calls for Accountability
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with political leaders and citizens demanding accountability. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has called for a judicial inquiry into the matter, emphasizing the need for transparency and justice.
The MGMM Outlook
The tragic fire at Jaipur's SMS Hospital on October 5, 2025, marks a painful reminder of the vulnerabilities in India’s healthcare system. In the trauma ICU, where critically ill patients were admitted, the outbreak claimed six lives and left several others in critical condition. Reports indicate that the blaze, likely caused by a short circuit, was exacerbated by malfunctioning alarms, delayed oxygen shutdowns, and inadequate firefighting equipment. Eyewitness accounts further suggest negligence by staff, highlighting a stark lapse in patient safety protocols. Such incidents force a reflection on how healthcare institutions, entrusted with the most vulnerable lives, must rigorously implement safety and emergency measures to prevent avoidable tragedies.
This calamity has ignited widespread public outrage and political scrutiny, with demands for accountability echoing across Rajasthan and beyond. Leaders from various spheres, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, have called for urgent investigations to ensure justice and prevent recurrence. The lives lost and the suffering endured by patients and families serve as a somber call to action, emphasizing that healthcare facilities must prioritize protection and preparedness with unwavering seriousness.
(Sources: Times of India, Indian Express, Hindustan Times)
Comments