Delhi Police have successfully dismantled a racket involved in the supply of Chinese manjha, a type of synthetic kite string that is banned due to its dangerous nature. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the illegal trade, and authorities seized over 500 spools of the harmful thread during the operation.
Operation Details
The arrests were made following a tip-off about the storage and distribution of Chinese manjha in the national capital. Police raided a godown in the Bhajanpura area, where the accused were found storing large quantities of the banned string. The seized spools are believed to be part of a larger network supplying the dangerous thread to vendors across the city.
Accused Identified
The two arrested individuals have been identified as Ravi Kumar and Mohan Singh, both residents of Delhi. They were produced before a local court and sent to judicial custody. Preliminary investigations suggest that the manjha was being sourced from outside the state and sold at high prices, especially during the kite-flying season.
Health and Safety Concerns
Chinese manjha, coated with glass or metal powder, is extremely sharp and has been responsible for numerous injuries and fatalities, including cuts to humans and animals, particularly birds. The Delhi government imposed a ban on the manufacture, sale, and use of such synthetic strings in 2017, but the illegal trade continues to thrive due to high demand during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Independence Day.
Police Action
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northeast) Sanjay Tyagi stated that the police are intensifying efforts to curb the menace. 'We are conducting regular raids and have formed special teams to track down suppliers and distributors. The public is urged to report any suspicious activity related to Chinese manjha,' he said.
Authorities have also warned kite sellers and shopkeepers against stocking or selling the banned string, which can lead to imprisonment and fines. The crackdown is part of a broader initiative to ensure public safety and prevent accidents during kite-flying events.
Legal Framework
The use of Chinese manjha is punishable under the Indian Penal Code and the Delhi Police Act. Offenders can face up to five years in jail. Despite the legal provisions, enforcement remains a challenge due to the clandestine nature of the trade. The recent arrests are expected to send a strong message to those involved in the illegal business.
Police have also appealed to the public to opt for traditional cotton strings or eco-friendly alternatives to avoid the risks associated with Chinese manjha. Community awareness programs are being planned to educate people about the dangers of synthetic kite strings.
