Over 120 Children Injured, 14 Lose Eyesight After Playing With ‘Carbide Guns’ in Madhya Pradesh

Bhopal: The use of “carbide guns,” a type of firecracker device sold as a toy during Diwali, has caused serious injuries to children across Madhya Pradesh. At least 14 children have lost their eyesight, and around 122 others have been hospitalised with severe eye and facial injuries over the past three days, according to reports.
These dangerous devices, also known as “desi firecracker guns,” are made using tin pipes and gunpowder. When ignited, they produce a powerful explosion that can cause severe burns and permanent damage to the eyes. Despite their appearance as toys, the guns are highly unsafe and have led to several children being admitted to hospitals across the state.
Vidisha is among the worst-affected districts, where local markets continued to sell these banned devices even after the government prohibited their sale on October 18. Doctors from hospitals in Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Gwalior have reported a sharp increase in cases related to these explosions during the Diwali period.
The guns are being sold for 150 to 200 rupees in local markets and are often marketed as “mini cannons.” Some children also attempt to make their own versions at home using plastic or tin pipes filled with gunpowder, calcium carbide, and matchstick heads. Once ignited, the mixture produces a violent explosion, releasing burning gas and debris that strike the face and eyes.
Police officials said that despite the ban, many vendors continued to sell these guns in local stalls. The problem has been made worse by social media platforms, where dangerous videos and short clips tagged as “firecracker gun challenge” have become popular among children, encouraging them to try the risky activity at home.