Anant Ambani airlifts Bengal teen living in pond to Mumbai for treatment

A 16-year-old boy from Beldanga in West Bengal's Murshidabad district, who had been spending days and nights in ponds due to an intense burning sensation on his body, has been airlifted to Mumbai for specialised medical care after Anant Ambani intervened. The teenager, Iqbal, reportedly experiences a severe burning sensation whenever he comes out of water, prompting him to stay submerged for long periods. Neighbours bring him food, which he eats while remaining in the water.

A video of Iqbal eating snacks while floating in a pond went viral, prompting Anant Ambani to offer medical assistance. On his instructions, Iqbal was admitted to Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai for evaluation. The family had previously sought medical help but could not afford prolonged treatment. Times Now reports that doctors have urged a detailed medical evaluation, ruling out supernatural causes. Possible conditions being investigated include erythromelalgia, aquagenic pruritus, peripheral neuropathy, and skin infections, the outlet adds.

Hindustan Times and Livemint report that doctors at SSKM Hospital have warned that prolonged water immersion can cause skin maceration, increasing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Iqbal has reportedly developed pale skin on his hands and feet, along with cold and cough symptoms.