Serious concerns over public safety and enforcement have surfaced in Odisha’s Bolangir district after a hazardous freebie toy, which allegedly caused a young boy to lose an eye, continues to be sold openly in local markets despite a police complaint.
Child loses eye after toy explodes
The incident occurred last Monday at Sagadaghat village under Titilagarh Police Station limits. An eight-year-old boy, son of local resident Laba Haripal, was eating a packet of spiced crunchy puffcorn chips that contained a toy inside.
According to the family, the toy resembled a lighter-like object. While sitting near a fire to keep warm, the child allegedly threw the toy into the flames, unaware of the danger. The object exploded instantly, causing severe injuries and resulting in permanent damage to the child’s eye.
Complaint filed, police action questioned
Following the incident, the child’s parents approached the police and lodged a complaint, demanding strict action against the chips manufacturing company. However, locals alleged that police only made a station diary entry and failed to register a formal case or begin an investigation.
Residents said the lack of action has emboldened vendors, with the same non-branded chips packets still being sold openly across Bolangir markets.
Public anger grows over inaction
The continued sale of the hazardous product has sparked widespread outrage. Locals accused the authorities of remaining passive in a matter involving a child’s safety and potentially dangerous consumer goods.
Laba Haripal said his son had purchased the chips after returning from tuition. “He found a toy inside the packet and threw it into the fire, thinking it was useless. Suddenly it exploded. There was no chance for him to escape,” he said.
Calls for urgent intervention
With no visible action against the manufacturer or sellers, anger among residents and the victim’s family continues to mount. Locals are demanding immediate intervention, seizure of the product, and accountability to prevent similar incidents.
The case has renewed concerns over unregulated food products and unsafe promotional toys being sold to children without oversight.