‘I’m possessed’: Bengal teen spends years in a pond, says air makes his skin burn

Murshidabad, West Bengal: A 16-year-old boy in Murshidabad district has drawn attention for spending days at a stretch submerged in a pond, saying he experiences an intense burning sensation whenever his skin comes into contact with air.

Iqbal Sheikh, from Beldanga, has reportedly followed the unusual routine for nearly five years. According to local residents, the teenager sometimes remains in the water continuously for four to seven days, staying there through both day and night.

Iqbal attributes the sensation to what he believes is possession by a jinn or spirit. However, there is no evidence linking his condition to supernatural causes, and the exact medical or psychological reason behind his behaviour remains unclear.

Says water provides relief

According to reports, Iqbal experiences severe discomfort when he comes out of the pond after spending a prolonged period in the water. He says the burning sensation subsides once he returns to the water.

The teenager reportedly depends on food brought by local residents while he remains submerged. Villagers have been giving him flattened rice, biscuits, snacks and other food items.

His prolonged exposure to water has also reportedly affected his health. The skin on his hands, feet and other parts of his body has become pale and waterlogged, while he has developed persistent cold and cough symptoms.

Family struggles to arrange treatment

Iqbal’s family has taken him to a local Block Primary Health Centre for medical attention. However, financial difficulties have made it difficult for them to pursue further treatment or seek private medical care.

Relatives and local authorities have also tried to persuade the teenager to leave the pond, but their efforts have not been successful. He continues to return to the water, where he says he finds relief from the burning sensation.

Pond becomes a gathering spot

Iqbal’s unusual routine has also turned the pond into a gathering point for residents and schoolchildren. People have been visiting to watch him and some have brought food for the teenager.

Videos showing Iqbal in the water have also circulated online, further drawing attention to his situation.

Local residents have been trying to coordinate efforts to arrange proper medical care for him. Amid the growing public interest, concerns remain focused on the teenager’s health and the need to identify the cause of his symptoms through appropriate medical assessment.