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What happened
During Diwali, several children in Bhopal, Vidisha, Gwalior and other districts used makeshift “carbide guns”, causing explosions and serious injuries. These devices, also called “carbide pipe guns” or “desi cracker guns”, became popular this year and are almost 150-200 in local markets and by roadside vendors.
The guns are made using PVC or plastic pipes, gas lighters and calcium carbide. When water is added to carbide, it releases acetylene gas, which explodes when burned and produces a loud sound like firecrackers. Small plastic pieces ejected from pipes act like shrapnel, injuring the eyes, face and skin of users and spectators.
Hospital and injuries
More than 100 people were admitted to hospitals in Bhopal and nearby Vidisha. Around 60 patients are being treated in Bhopal’s government hospitals – Hamidia, Jaypee, AIIMS and Seva Sadan, while 50 others are being treated in Vidisha.
Doctors said that five patients in Vidisha have suffered serious eye injuries. Doctors at AIIMS Bhopal are trying to restore the eyesight of a 12 year old child. There are 10 child patients with similar condition in Hamidia Hospital.
Across Madhya Pradesh, hospitals recorded nearly 300 cases of eye irritation, burning sensation or vision loss. The highest number of cases were from Bhopal (150), followed by Vidisha (50), Sehore (28), Gwalior (19), Ujjain (15), Indore (11), Shivpuri (10), Raisen (3), Datia (2), and Ratlam (1).
19 injured children were admitted to Jaya Arogya Hospital in Gwalior. Eight had emergency eye surgery to remove debris, while two lost their corneas. A child was referred to AIIMS Bhopal for advanced treatment.
Doctors warn that many victims may suffer permanent vision loss. Most patients are between six and fifteen years old.
family reactions
The families of the injured children accused the authorities of not stopping the sale of carbide guns. The parents of Hemant Panthi, 14, and Aris, 15, who are undergoing treatment at Hamidia Hospital, said the administration has failed to stop their sale and demanded compensation for medical expenses as well as action against the manufacturers and sellers.
police action
Police have started statewide inspection and seizure. In Bhopal, 228 plastic carbide guns and 102 packets of calcium carbide were seized and a dozen people were detained. An FIR was registered against local resident Mohammad Taha for selling guns.
Gwalior Police has arrested a youth and registered a case against him under the Explosives Act and the Indian Justice Code (BNS). Officials have issued orders to inspect all firecracker shops and roadside stalls. If anyone is found selling or storing carbide guns, he will face legal action.
Government response
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had directed officials on October 18 to stop the sale of carbide guns, but they were still available in the markets during Diwali. After the injured, the government has imposed complete restrictions in the entire state.
Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla said that the condition of the children admitted in the hospital is being closely monitored. He said that strict action would be taken against those manufacturing or selling equipment illegally.
Prohibitory orders have been imposed in several districts under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Defense Code, 2023, which bans the manufacture, sale and use of carbide guns. Sub-divisional magistrates have been instructed to personally inspect firecracker shops and ensure compliance.
health warnings
Doctors said carbide guns are extremely dangerous because the chemical reaction between calcium carbide and water produces acetylene gas, a flammable and poisonous compound that can damage the eyes, brain and nervous system.
How did the trend spread?
Authorities believe the popularity of carbide guns grew through short videos on social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube, where children participated in the “Firecracker Gun Challenge.” Many people tried to rebuild the devices at home, unaware of the risks.
district wise impact
The highest number of injuries were recorded in Bhopal, Vidisha, Gwalior and Indore. Major hospitals including AIIMS Bhopal, Hamidia, BMCHRC, Kamala Nehru, Seva Sadan, Jaypee and Jaya Arogya Hospital treated dozens of patients with corneal burns, debris injuries and partial or complete vision loss.
Doctors and authorities have urged parents to stop children from using such unsafe devices. Authorities have advised citizens to avoid explosive toys and celebrate future festivals with only safe and approved firecrackers.
(with inputs from agencies)