Boy, 16, 'living in a pond' after developing unbearable condition finally being seen by doctors

A 16-year-old boy named Iqbal Sheikh has been living in a pond for several years due to a painful condition that makes him avoid land, according to reports. The teenager, from Murshidabad district in West Bengal, India, began experiencing a burning sensation across his body, prompting him to seek relief by remaining submerged in water. After a campaign by neighbors brought attention to his plight, Iqbal was recently transported to Mumbai’s Sir HN Reliance Hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Iqbal’s condition has persisted for more than five years, during which he has spent much of his time sitting in ponds and rivers near his village. His parents initially sought medical help at local clinics, but they were unable to continue treatment due to financial difficulties. At one point, Iqbal described his symptoms as being caused by a "djinn," or supernatural force, affecting his body. Despite these challenges, his situation gained widespread attention both locally and internationally, leading to public concern and action. Concerned residents organized efforts to raise awareness about Iqbal’s condition, eventually prompting authorities to intervene. This led to his airlift to Mumbai, where specialists at Sir HN Reliance Hospital are now assessing his case. Doctors suspect he may have erythromelalgia, a rare disorder characterized by burning pain, redness, and warmth in the affected areas, typically the feet. While the condition is generally managed with topical treatments or medication, Iqbal’s prolonged exposure to water has raised additional concerns among medical professionals. Experts warn that Iqbal’s habit of staying submerged for extended periods poses serious health risks. Prolonged submersion can lead to extremely soft and pale skin, making him vulnerable to severe infections such as fungal and bacterial diseases. A dermatologist noted that the lack of air exposure weakens the skin’s protective barriers, increasing the likelihood of complications. These warnings underscore the urgency of providing proper medical care to address both his primary condition and the secondary effects of his current lifestyle. In videos shared online, Iqbal is shown sitting in a pond, eating snacks, and later appearing distressed while wrapped in towels at home. One clip captured him crying out in pain, surrounded by family members. These images, along with accounts from his relatives, highlight the emotional toll of his condition and the desperate circumstances under which he has lived for years. His family expressed hope that receiving professional medical care will enable him to return to a healthier, more normal life. The cost of Iqbal’s airlift to Mumbai was reportedly covered by Indian billionaire Anant Ambani, according to local media reports. This financial assistance reflects growing public sympathy and the influence of community-driven advocacy in securing critical resources for individuals facing complex health issues. As Iqbal undergoes diagnostic procedures and potential treatments, medical teams are working to determine the best course of action to improve his quality of life. His case continues to draw attention, emphasizing the intersection of personal hardship, public response, and the role of private philanthropy in addressing urgent healthcare needs.