A dangerous stunt during a Muharram procession in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district has landed four people in legal trouble after a van packed with firecrackers was suspended nearly 40 feet in the air by a crane and ignited before a large crowd, creating an explosion-like spectacle. The incident, captured on video, has gone viral on social media and sparked serious safety concerns.
According to police, the incident took place during a Muharram procession in Badnagar town, where members of a local akhada allegedly staged the display as part of an akhada competition. A Tata Magic van was hoisted high above the ground using a crane, with its windows shut and engine switched off. Firecracker rockets were placed inside the vehicle and set off while it was suspended, sending smoke, sparks and shattered glass into the air, creating the appearance of a blast.
Videos circulating online show two men standing on the suspended vehicle and waving red flags moments before the fireworks erupted inside the van. Authorities said the stunt posed a serious risk to spectators gathered below, as debris from the vehicle fell into the crowd. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
After the video surfaced, Badnagar police registered an FIR against four persons under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to endangering public safety, negligent handling of explosive substances and creating obstruction in a public place. The accused have been identified as organisers Shoaib Khan, Zahid Khan and Taleem (Tasleem) Khan, along with crane owner Gopal Mali. Police have also detained three of the accused and said further action will depend on the outcome of the investigation.
Additional Superintendent of Police Karan Deep Singh said the police took cognisance of the viral video and acted immediately. He said preliminary findings indicate that the vehicle’s engine had been switched off before the fireworks were placed inside and ignited while the van was suspended. Officials are also examining whether the organisers had obtained the required permissions to conduct such a high-risk display.
The incident has reignited concerns over the use of hazardous stunts during public processions, with authorities stressing that such displays can endanger both participants and bystanders. The investigation is continuing.