In a significant crackdown on the illegal trade of hazardous kite-flying materials, the Jalandhar police have apprehended two individuals and confiscated a large consignment of banned Chinese kite string. The operation, conducted by the Division Number 8 police station, led to the recovery of 20 bags filled with the dangerous 'Chinese manjha'.
The Police Operation and Arrest
The police team, acting on a tip-off about the storage and sale of the prohibited material, conducted a raid in the city. During the operation, they arrested Gurpreet Singh, a resident of Basti Bawa Khel, and his associate, Lovepreet Singh, from Basti Danishmanda. The accused were found in possession of the substantial illegal stock.
The seized Chinese manjha is notorious for its sharp, non-biodegradable, and metallic-coated composition. It is designed to cut through other kite strings during fights but has become a lethal weapon, causing fatal accidents and injuries to people and birds. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a nationwide ban on its manufacture, sale, and use.
Dangers of the Banned Chinese Manjha
The use of this banned string has led to numerous tragedies across India, especially during festivals like Makar Sankranti. Its razor-sharp quality can cause deep cuts, leading to severe injuries and even deaths for unsuspecting two-wheeler riders, pedestrians, and children. Furthermore, it poses a grave threat to the avian population, with birds getting entangled and suffering horrific wounds, often leading to amputations or a slow, painful death.
Authorities have repeatedly warned the public against using any form of synthetic or coated manjha, advocating for the use of traditional cotton threads for kite flying. Despite the bans and awareness campaigns, a clandestine market for the deadly Chinese string persists, driven by demand during the kite-flying season.
Legal Action and Ongoing Vigilance
Following the seizure, the Jalandhar police have registered a case against the accused under relevant sections of the law. The investigation aims to uncover the supply chain—identifying the source of the material and potential other distributors in the region.
This arrest highlights the continuous efforts by Punjab Police to enforce the ban and curb the menace of illegal Chinese manjha. Police officials have urged citizens to report any information regarding the storage or sale of such banned materials. They have also advised parents and kite-flying enthusiasts to strictly avoid these dangerous strings to ensure community safety and protect wildlife.
The successful raid in Jalandhar serves as a stern warning to those involved in this illicit trade and reinforces the commitment of law enforcement to public safety. It is a crucial step in preventing potential accidents and upholding environmental regulations in the state.
