SCB Row: Health Minister Defends Government, Hits Back at Opposition
Mahaling argued that the government had already outlined corrective measures, but opposition leaders refused to engage in debate or move an adjournment motion.
He criticised their tactics as disruptive, contrasting them with earlier practices when issues were resolved through all‑party meetings.
The Minister also questioned BJD leader Naveen Patnaik’s credibility, pointing out his reluctance to accept ministerial resignations during his 24‑year tenure.
Despite the protests, the Assembly passed the Health Department’s Rs 23,182.14 crore budget demand.
Key allocations include Rs 320 crore for fire safety in 2025–26, Rs 476.73 crore for fire safety and solar energy in 2026–27, and provisions to add 5,000 IPD beds across medical colleges and hospitals, including 1,800 at SCB.
The government plans to expand ICUs, redevelop SCB (Cuttack) and VIMSAR (Burla), and strengthen Ayurvedic, Homoeopathic, and government hospitals.
BJP MLAs actively participated in debates, raising multiple points on health initiatives.
