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Bhopal: What began as a festive craze has turned into a public health nightmare in Madhya Pradesh. This Diwali, the so-called "carbide gun" or "desi firecracker gun" has emerged as a deadly trend among children, resulting in severe injuries and permanent vision loss. In just three days, over 122 children across the state have been admitted to hospitals with serious eye injuries, 14 of whom have lost their eyesight. Vidisha District Worst Affected Vidisha has been hit hardest in all districts, with local markets openly selling these crude "carbide guns" despite a government ban issued on October 18. These makeshift devices, priced between Rs 150 and Rs 200, are marketed like toys but explode with extreme force. Seventeen-year-old Neha, now recovering at Hamidia Hospital, tearfully recounted, “We bought a homemade carbide gun. When it exploded, one of my eyes burned completely. I can't see anything.” Another victim, Raj Vishwakarma, admitted, “I saw videos on social media and tried to make a firecracker gun at home. It exploded in my face… and I lost my eye.” Vidisha police have arrested six individuals for illegally selling the devices. Inspector RK Mishra said, “Immediate action has been taken. Those responsible for selling or promoting these carbide guns will face legal consequences.” Hospitals Overwhelmed With Injuries Eye wards across Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Gwalior are treating a surge of young patients injured by these guns. At Bhopal's Hamidia Hospital alone, 26 children were admitted in 72 hours. VIDEO | Bhopal: Over 60 people, mostly children aged 8–14, injured by a makeshift carbide gun this Diwali, with severe injuries to eyes, face, and skin. Hospitals report ongoing treatment. CMHO Manish Sharma warns against the use of carbide guns.(Full video available on PTI… pic.twitter.com/zh2sNFh22k — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 22, 2025 Doctors have issued stern warnings to parents. Dr Manish Sharma, CMHO at Hamidia Hospital, said, “This device causes direct damage to the eyes. The explosion releases metal fragments and carbide vapors that burn the retina. We are treating several cases where children’s pupils ruptured, leading to permanent blindness.” Some victims are in the ICU, and many may never regain full vision. How the Devices Are Made Children reportedly construct the "carbide gun" using plastic or tin pipes filled with gunpowder, matchstick heads, and calcium carbide. When ignited through a small hole, the mixture produces a violent blast, propelling debris and burning gas directly toward the face and eyes. Police have noted that these guns are sold as “mini cannons” in local fairs and roadside stalls without any safety regulations. Social Media Fuels The Trend The dangerous craze has been amplified by social media. Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts showcasing the "Firecracker Gun Challenge" have gone viral, encouraging teenagers to fire the guns for likes and views, often with devastating consequences.
