Carbide gun tragedy: Deputy CM Shukla visits Hamidia Hospital

 

 

 

 

The aftermath of the Diwali tragedy involving carbide guns has drawn sharp attention from both the Government and Opposition leaders, as dozens of children and youth were injured across Madhya Pradesh. Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla visited Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal to meet the victims and review their treatment.

 

He was briefed by doctors that out of the 37 injured admitted, 32 have been discharged while five remain under medical care. Shukla assured that all patients are receiving the best possible treatment and instructed hospital staff to maintain strict vigilance and avoid any negligence.

 

He emphasised that a thorough investigation is underway into illegal firecracker manufacturing and storage, and promised that those found guilty will face strict legal action. Senior officials including Dr Kavita Singh, Dean of Gandhi Medical College, and Dr Sunit Tandon, Superintendent of Hamidia Hospital, were present during the visit. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar also visited the hospital and met with the injured children.

 

He expressed deep concern over the widespread injuries caused by the Rs 200 carbide guns, which reportedly led to the loss of eyesight in 292 individuals across 11 districts. Singhar criticised the government for failing to enforce its own ban on the sale of such hazardous items, calling the incident not just a tragedy but a ‘governmental crime.’

 

He questioned why, despite prior orders from the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary to halt sales, no preventive action was taken. Singhar condemned the repeated lapses in ensuring children’s safety during festive seasons and accused the ruling BJP government of failing both in protecting citizens and in implementing its directives. As the state reels from th e consequences of this incident, public pressure mounts for accountability and stricter enforcement of safety regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.