A 35-year-old man in India has died following a tragic incident involving a homemade explosive device that was disguised as a traditional dessert. The victim, identified by authorities in Madhya Pradesh as Rajendra Barautiya, suffered fatal injuries after the object detonated inside his mouth.
The event took place on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 10, in the courtyard of the victim's home located in Padariya Chhanta village, situated in the Dindori district. According to statements provided by Dindori Kotwali Inspector Durga Prasad Nagpure, the victim was gathered around a bonfire with his family after dinner when a neighbor, identified as Ramabhagat Barautiya, joined them at the fire.
Police have described the device as a type of homemade explosive commonly referred to in rural communities as a "pig bomb," intended for use in killing wild boars. These hazardous devices are typically constructed by packing gunpowder—sometimes sourced from firecrackers or quarries—into balls of dough. Due to their round shape, the explosives can bear a resemblance to rasgulla, a traditional sweet treat.
Upon biting into the device, it detonated, causing severe trauma to Rajendra Barautiya's mouth and jaw. Although his family immediately transported him to a hospital for emergency care, he succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.
Law enforcement officials have launched an investigation to determine the origins of the explosive and to identify whether other individuals were involved in its creation or placement. As of now, the motive remains unclear, with police officer Rekha Singh noting that investigators have not yet determined if the incident was intended to cause harm or if it was an act of mischief. Authorities continue to work on the case to establish how the device was obtained.
"We don't know if the motive was to kill, or if it was a mischief," police officer Rekha Singh told Agence France-Presse, according to CBS News. "That is a matter of investigation."
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or on X @athompsonUSAT.
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