Chinese Manjha Claims Doctor's Life in Jaunpur, Second Fatality Within Weeks
A deadly Chinese manjha, or kite string, has claimed another life in Uttar Pradesh's Jaunpur district. This tragic incident marks the second fatality caused by the banned material in less than a month.
Doctor Succumbs to Throat Injury
Dr Sameer Hashmi, a 28-year-old medical practitioner, died on Wednesday after a Chinese manjha slit his throat. The incident occurred in the Panch Hatiya area under Kotwali police station.
Dr Hashmi, a native of Kerakat, was returning home from Jaunpur city. As he passed by a public school campus, the sharp kite string entangled around his neck. It caused a deep wound that proved fatal.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Locals and police rushed Dr Hashmi to the district hospital. He succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Following a complaint from his family, authorities lodged a homicide case.
The body was sent for post-mortem examination. City CO Goldy Gupta confirmed these details, expressing concern over the persistent danger.
Previous Incident and Ongoing Menace
On December 11, a similar tragedy struck Jaunpur. School teacher Sandeep Tripathi, 45, died after a Chinese manjha slit his throat on Sadhbhavna Bridge over the Gomati river.
He was returning home after dropping his daughter at school. The incident highlighted the widespread risk posed by these banned strings.
CO Gupta noted that despite continuous drives against Chinese manjha and massive seizures from kite shops and vendors, such incidents keep happening. He appealed to the public for information about those selling or using the banned material.
Eyewitness Account of the Tragedy
Locals described a harrowing scene. The manjha wrapped around Dr Hashmi's neck, causing a severe cut. He fell on the road, with blood flowing profusely from the wound.
Their quick response helped transport him to the hospital, but medical efforts could not save his life.
Another Injury in Varanasi
In a related incident, Jitendra Maurya from Churamanpur Lohta suffered grave injuries on Wednesday afternoon. He was traveling to Ramnagar on a motorcycle when a Chinese manjha struck him.
While crossing Samneghat Bridge, the string caused deep cuts on both his eyelids and nose. Passersby rushed him to a hospital in Ramnagar.
Doctors provided initial treatment and termed his condition stable. This case underscores the material's danger even when it does not prove fatal.
Authorities Struggle with Enforcement
The repeated incidents show the challenges in enforcing the ban on Chinese manjha. Authorities conduct regular seizures, but the material remains in circulation.
Public awareness and cooperation are crucial to prevent further tragedies. Residents must report any sightings of the banned kite strings to help curb their use.
