India, Oct. 24 -- The Madhya Pradesh government has banned the sale, purchase, and manufacturing of calcium carbide guns used as firecrackers after nearly 300 people suffered vision-threatening eye injuries during the Diwali festivities in the state.

Around 15 of the approximately 300 people who suffered eye injuries in the state underwent eye surgeries in Bhopal, and another 15 remain under observation.

Over 50 injuries were reported from Vidisha and 56 from Gwalior. Most of the victims are children aged between seven and 14.

Just days ahead of Diwali, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had asked district magistrates and police officers across MP to prevent the sale of carbide pipe guns, but the devices were still sold rampantly in the market...