Bhopal – During Diwali, the use of homemade carbide guns sparked a tragedy that left almost 300 people hurt, with dozens—including children—reporting serious eye damage. Hospitals across Madhya Pradesh are treating the victims.
Congress leaders in the state slammed the ruling BJP government for ignoring warnings about the dangerous fireworks. Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar said the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) urged a ban on carbide guns last year, but the government did not act. “We see children losing their sight, and that shows the BJP’s careless rule,” he told reporters after visiting kids at Bhopal’s Hamidia Hospital.
Singhar singled out Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, who heads the health department, saying he should resign if he cannot manage the crisis. “Why hasn’t Chief Minister Mohan Yadav removed him from the cabinet?” he asked. He accused Shukla of turning the state’s already fragile medical system into a calamity.
While the government has not released official numbers, opposition figures say nearly 300 people were injured and about 20 children lost vision from the blasts. The worst‑hit district is Vidisha, where vendors sold the cheap “carbide guns” in open markets despite a government ban issued on Oct. 18.
The devices, costing between 150 and 200 rupees, look like harmless toys but explode like bombs. Doctors at AIIMS‑Bhopal explained that eye injuries from these fireworks come in two main forms: acid and alkali. Acid burns are usually less severe, but alkali burns can cause deep tissue damage and permanent blindness.
The incident has put a spotlight on Madhya Pradesh’s health crisis and the BJP’s handling of public safety. As hospitals remain crowded, citizens are calling for stronger enforcement of the ban and clearer warning.
Source: ianslive
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
