A devastating incident in Odisha's Balangir district has left an eight-year-old boy with permanent vision loss. The tragedy unfolded on Monday in Sagadghat village when a toy included inside a packet of chips exploded violently upon contact with fire.
Horrific Accident While Child Was Alone
According to family members, the young boy was home alone at the time of the accident. His mother, Bhanumati, described the terrifying sequence of events. Her son was sitting near a traditional clay stove while eating chips from the packet.
The boy apparently threw the small toy from the chips packet into the flames. What happened next was catastrophic. The toy exploded immediately upon contact with the fire.
Severe Eye Damage Beyond Repair
Medical reports indicate the explosion was powerful enough to dislocate the boy's pupil. Sharp fragments from the exploding toy pierced directly into his eye. Doctors at Titilagarh Hospital examined the child thoroughly.
They concluded the damage was too severe for surgical intervention. The eye could not be saved, resulting in permanent vision loss for the young victim.
"We rushed my son to Titilagarh Hospital immediately," said Bhanumati, the distraught mother. "But after examination, the doctor confirmed the eye was severely damaged. We feel completely helpless. The manufacturing company must be held responsible for including such dangerous toys with food products."
Police Launch Investigation
The boy's parents have filed a formal complaint against the chips manufacturer at Titilagarh police station. Law enforcement authorities have initiated a preliminary inquiry before registering the official case.
Sub-divisional Police Officer Jyotisabanta Padhani stated, "We are investigating whether this incident resulted from negligence or if the toy contained hazardous materials." The investigation will determine liability and potential safety violations.
This tragic case highlights serious concerns about child safety and product regulations. Many parents are now questioning the practice of including toys with food items, especially those that might pose unrecognized dangers to children.
