BHUBANESWAR: SUM Hospital’s principal promoter Manoj Ranjan Nayak was produced in SDJM court here after his two-day remand ended on Sunday. Nayak was sent to judicial custody. He was interrogated by the local police for two consecutive days.
DCP Satyabrata Bhoi, who was part of the team which examined Nayak, said the interrogation revolved around organisational structure, his role and responsibilities. He was asked whether he was aware that the hospital is functioning without fire safety measures.
Nayak’s direct accountability in the hospital’s day to day functioning is yet to be ascertained. If required, he would be taken on remand once more, the DCP said.
“How they managed to operate the hospital without necessary approval from Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and Fire Services Department is the primary concern for the police,” said Bhoi.
Police had also quizzed Dean of SUM Hospital and Registrar of Siksha O Anusandhan University to examine their roles in the management of this health facility. Their statements are being verified with the documents seized from the Registrar’s office and hospital.
The incident is also being examined on the basis whether a case can be registered against the hospital authorities for flouting BDA norms. Meanwhile, Nayak has moved the District and Session Court, Khurda seeking bail. Hearing on his bail plea is likely to take place on Tuesday, sources said.