CHENNAI: A woman suffered severe injuries to the left

after firecrackers that two youth were setting off fell on her during Diwali celebrations in Choolaimedu.

Police said H Kalaivani, 28, of Annai Sathya Nagar in Arumbakkam, was walking to a nearby shop to buy milk when a few people were throwing firecrackers in the air. While returning, a youth lit a

and threw it despite Kalaivani telling him to wait. The burning firecracker exploded close to her eyes, said an investigating officer.

Seeing Kalaivani crying out in pain, passers-by alerted her husband Harikiran who took her to a private eye hospital in Nungambakkam. Police, quoting doctors, said chemical from the firecrackers had entered the iris of the left eye. Doctors recommended an immediate surgery, police said.

On Wednesday, Harikiran lodged a complaint with the Choolaimedu police. With the help of the identity given by the complainants, police found out that the youth were from the same locality. Police have registered a case under three sections of IPC 278 (making atmosphere noxious to health), 337 (causing hurt by act of endangering life or personal safety of others), 286 (negligent conduct with respect to explosive substance). Police have identified the duo as Vijay and Chelladurai and have launched a hunt for the suspects.

Police said the two were bursting crackers since early morning. “They should have been careful. Their negligence has injured the woman,” said the officer.