The tragedy stands as a painful reminder of how viral social-media trends and homemade devices can result in irreversible harm — particularly among children.
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The tragedy stands as a painful reminder of how viral social-media trends and homemade devices can result in irreversible harm — particularly among children.
An alarming trend has emerged during the Diwali celebrations in Madhya Pradesh, India, where homemade explosive devices known as “carbide guns” have caused severe eye injuries among children. Out of more than 120 young patients hospitalised, 14 have already been confirmed as permanently blind.
The so-called carbide gun is made from cheap materials — plastic or tin pipes, a gas-lighter spark, gunpowder, and calcium carbide. When water meets the carbide inside the pipe, it generates acetylene gas, which explodes upon ignition, sending fragments and burning gases directly toward the face.
These devices were still being sold openly in Vidisha despite a government ban issued days before Diwali.
Hospitals in Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Gwalior have treated children with severe eye trauma, many of whom remain under medical care. Doctors report ruptured pupils, burned retinas, and deep corneal damage — injuries so severe that several children are unlikely to regain their sight.
Families have criticised authorities for failing to enforce the ban or warn the public about the risks of these makeshift explosives.
The state government has launched a crackdown on manufacturers and sellers, arresting several individuals linked to the illegal trade. Experts have warned that carbide guns are not toys but dangerous improvised explosives that pose serious risks to life and vision.
The tragedy stands as a painful reminder of how viral social-media trends and homemade devices can result in irreversible harm — particularly among children.
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