Shocker / Six Years, 24/7 Underwater: The Shocking Story of Iqbal Hussain

Murshidabad, Aug 11: A heart-wrenching story has emerged from Murshidabad, where 17-year-old Iqbal Hussain has been forced to spend nearly 24 hours a day submerged in water due to a rare and painful skin condition.

For the past six years, Iqbal has lived inside a pond near his home, as exposure to air causes unbearable burning sensations across his body. His family, living below the poverty line, cannot afford advanced medical treatment.

“Whenever he comes out of water, his body burns like fire,” his parents said, describing their helplessness.

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Possessed by a Spirit or Jinn!

In a video circulating on social media, a man can be heard questioning why the teenager refuses to leave the pond. Iqbal’s reply is startling — he insists that the moment his skin touches air, an unbearable burning sensation engulfs his body. Seeking relief, he immediately submerges again.

He attributes this torment not to medical causes but to a supernatural force, claiming a jinn or spirit has possessed him. The teen survives on flattened rice and biscuits, offered by the villagers, while he remains underwater.

What Led to This?

Iqbal’s ordeal began in childhood when he experienced swelling in his limbs and rapid weight gain, followed by severe burning and pain. With no access to proper healthcare, he discovered that immersing himself in water provided temporary relief. Since then, he has spent days and nights submerged, often for five to six days at a stretch.

However, constant exposure to water has worsened his condition. His skin has turned pale and begun to decay, while he now suffers from persistent cough, cold, and pneumonia symptoms. His family fears for his survival, especially during winter, when staying in water becomes even more dangerous.

Local reports highlight that Iqbal’s family tried home remedies but failed to ease his suffering. Poverty has left them unable to consult specialists or afford hospital care. His parents have appealed to the administration and health authorities to intervene and provide medical assistance.