A devastating incident has unfolded in Madhya Pradesh this Diwali, as the use of ‘carbide guns’ — locally known as desi firecracker guns — has left 14 children blind and more than 120 hospitalised with severe eye and facial injuries.
Doctors across Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, and Vidisha have raised warnings about these dangerous homemade devices that are being widely sold as toys in local markets, despite a government ban issued on October 18.
What Are “Carbide Guns”?
The so-called “carbide guns” are made using tin or plastic pipes filled with gunpowder, calcium carbide, and matchstick heads. When ignited, they release an explosive blast that sends burning debris and gases flying — often hitting the eyes and face of those nearby. Priced cheaply between ₹150 and ₹200, these makeshift devices are being sold as “mini cannons” in local stalls.
Children Severely Injured Across MP
According to hospital records, over 120 children were admitted within just three days for severe burn and eye injuries. Among them, 14 children have reportedly lost their eyesight completely.
Vidisha district has been among the worst affected, with local shops caught selling the banned device.
One of the young victims told NDTV that he saw viral videos on social media teaching how to make the “firecracker gun” and attempted to replicate it at home, but it explode in his face. In another case, a seven-year-old girl sustained serious burns to her eyes after buying a similar device from a local vendor.
Doctors Warn of Permanent Eye Damage
Ophthalmologists warn that carbide guns can cause irreversible retinal burns and blindness. Dr. Arvind Yadav, an eye specialist in Bhopal, said these are not toys but improvised explosives capable of inflicting life-altering injuries.
Social Media Fueling Dangerous “Firecracker Gun Challenge”
Authorities said social media platforms are spreading reels and short videos glamorizing what is now being called the “firecracker gun challenge.” These trends are encouraging children to experiment with homemade explosives, risking catastrophic injuries.