Kite Flying Turns Deadly On Makar Sankranti As Chinese Manja Claims Four Lives In A Single Day

Chinese manja is a thin but extremely strong nylon-based kite string. It was earlier imported from China, which is how it got its name. Unlike normal cotton thread, this string is sharp and tough. It can easily cut other kite strings in the air. But the same sharpness also cuts human skin. Even a light touch can cause deep wounds. In many cases, it can lead to severe bleeding. This makes it extremely dangerous for people walking or riding on roads.

How Did Makar Sankranti Turn Into a Tragedy?

On Makar Sankranti, people across India were flying kites. Streets and rooftops were filled with excitement. But this joy turned into horror when Chinese manja started causing deadly accidents. In just one day, at least four people lost their lives. They were not flying kites. They were simply going about their daily work. This shows how risky this thread has become for the public.

Who Were the Victims?

In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, 45-year-old Raghubir Dhakad was riding his motorcycle. A nylon string suddenly cut his neck. He lost too much blood and died. In Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, a school teacher died after his throat was slashed by manja. Soon after, a young man riding a bike met the same fate. In Karnataka’s Bidar district, 48-year-old Sanju Kumar Hosamanni was also killed when the string got caught around his neck.

What Have Courts and the Government Done?

These incidents forced authorities to act. The Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court has ordered a complete ban on Chinese manja. The court said this thread is a serious threat to life. It also ruled that if a minor is caught using this banned string, their parents or guardians will be held responsible. This shows how serious the matter is.

What Legal Action Can Be Taken?

The High Court has clearly warned that selling or using Chinese manja is a criminal offence. If someone dies because of this thread, a case of causing death by negligence can be filed. This can lead to strict punishment, including jail. The court wants to make sure that no one treats this danger lightly.

Is the Police Taking Action?

Police across many states have seized large amounts of Chinese manja in the past year. Many sellers have been arrested. Despite this, the dangerous thread is still being sold secretly in markets. This makes enforcement difficult. People continue to buy and use it because it helps win kite battles. But this risky habit is costing lives.

What Should People Do Now?

Authorities are urging people to avoid Chinese manja completely. Only safe cotton strings should be used for kite flying. Festivals are meant to bring happiness, not death. One careless decision can ruin many lives. Public awareness is as important as police action. Until people stop using this dangerous thread, such tragedies may continue.