Bhopal: In the wake of multiple eye injuries caused by the use of illegal carbide guns during Diwali celebrations, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav took immediate action, visiting patients at Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal and issuing a firm directive to ban the manufacture, sale, and use of these dangerous devices across the state.
Carbide Guns: A Growing Threat to Public Safety
The Chief Minister expressed grave concern over the rising number of injuries, particularly among children and youth, caused by carbide guns — locally made explosive devices that pose serious risks to public safety. These devices use acetylene gas explosions to generate loud noises and pressure waves, which have led to severe burns, eye damage, and other injuries.
“Carbide guns are not toys but lethal explosive devices that endanger lives. Strict action must be taken with zero tolerance,” Dr. Yadav said after meeting with patients at the hospital. He emphasized the need for urgent legal and administrative steps to eliminate the availability of these devices, ensuring that offenders face stringent punishment under the relevant laws.
Victim Assistance and Government Support
During his visit, Dr. Yadav assured that the state government would provide swift medical assistance and support for those affected. He directed doctors at Hamidia Hospital to prioritize the treatment of patients, especially for those suffering from serious eye injuries, and also instructed that treatment costs be covered under the ‘Chief Minister’s Discretionary Fund’.
As of now, 37 patients have been admitted to the hospital, with 35 discharged and two still under treatment for critical eye injuries. Additionally, more than 200 cases of eye injuries have been reported statewide during the Diwali festival. The Chief Minister emphasized that the state government would not hesitate to take all possible measures to prevent further incidents.
Government’s Strict Measures Against Carbide Guns
Madhya Pradesh Chief Secretary Anurag Jain also took a strong stance against carbide guns, labeling them as “explosive devices” rather than harmless toys. He directed authorities to take action under several key legal frameworks, including the Arms Act of 1959, the Explosives Act of 1884, and the Explosive Substances Act of 1908, to clamp down on the illegal sale and manufacturing of carbide guns.
Jain instructed officials to register First Information Reports (FIRs) and pursue punitive action against anyone involved in the production or distribution of these devices. The state government has already initiated investigations, with six FIRs filed in Bhopal, eight in Vidisha, and one in Gwalior. Furthermore, the cyber branch of the Madhya Pradesh Police was tasked with monitoring online platforms to prevent the sale of carbide guns and their components.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigations
Under the law, anyone found guilty of manufacturing, selling, or possessing carbide guns without a license faces imprisonment of three to seven years and fines. The Madhya Pradesh Police Headquarters (PHQ) has stressed that authorities will continue to monitor and act against illegal activity related to carbide guns.
A Firm Government Stance
In his statement, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav vowed that the state government would continue its efforts to make Madhya Pradesh safer and protect its citizens, particularly the vulnerable children, from the dangers of these illegal explosives. “This is not just a safety issue but a matter of public health and well-being. Our focus is on ensuring that no such incidents occur again in the future,” he added.
Conclusion
As Madhya Pradesh grapples with the rise in carbide gun-related injuries, the government’s swift and strict action aims to prevent further harm. The state’s efforts to eliminate the threat of these explosives will contribute to safer celebrations and communities, ensuring that such dangerous devices are removed from public circulation and that victims receive the medical care they need.
