What Happened in Madhya Pradesh? Chinese Kite String Injures Four in Ratlam
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Synopsis
In a tragic twist during the joyous Raksha Bandhan festivities, four individuals were injured due to the use of banned Chinese manjha in Ratlam. This alarming incident highlights the ongoing dangers associated with illegal kite-flying practices, prompting urgent calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Chinese manjha continues to pose significant risks during kite-flying festivities.
- The recent incidents in Ratlam highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement of bans.
- Victims of injuries require emergency medical interventions.
- Local authorities are launching crackdowns on sellers of Chinese manjha.
- Awareness and compliance with safety regulations can prevent tragedies.
Bhopal/Ratlam, Aug 9 (NationPress) The joy of Raksha Bandhan was overshadowed by a series of injuries inflicted by the illegal Chinese manjha — a synthetic kite string coated with glass powder — on Saturday, resulting in four individuals being harmed across three different incidents along Jawara Road.
The most severe incident took place at approximately 4:45 p.m. near Ghatala Bridge, where 18-year-old Sameer Khan, the son of Shakoor Khan from Bapunagar, was riding his motorcycle into the city for shopping.
A stray kite string became wrapped around his neck, cutting deeply into his throat and causing significant bleeding. Sameer Khan, who witnessed the incident, bit through the string and, with the help of bystanders, rushed the youth to the district hospital.
Medical professionals performed emergency surgery to repair his windpipe, and his condition remains critical. The attending physicians stated, "an immediate surgical procedure could save his life."
Earlier that same day, around 3:30 p.m., another couple suffered injuries near the same bridge. Anand Gosar (25), a resident of Subhash Nagar, was on his way to visit his in-laws in Nahargarh with his wife Muskan when a kite string hit his neck, as reported by police officials.
While attempting to remove it, Anand inflicted deep cuts on his fingers, and Muskan injured her hand.
Due to throat trauma, Anand is currently experiencing difficulties in speaking. In a separate incident, police sources reported that a young man named Jitendra (22), from Bangrod in Ratlam district, also suffered serious throat injuries and is being treated at the district hospital.
Despite an official ban on Chinese manjha imposed by the National Green Tribunal and local authorities, its sale continues unabated during kite-flying festivals such as Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day, according to police.
“The District Collector of Ratlam has issued orders prohibiting the sale and use of Chinese thread for kite flying, aiming to prevent its circulation due to recurring injuries and environmental hazards,” stated a government announcement.
The sharp synthetic thread, banned for its dangerous nature, has once again shown its potential for harm as it caused injuries to throats and hands, necessitating emergency medical intervention and renewed administrative measures. Often coated with glass or metal powder, this synthetic thread is favored for its strength in kite duels but has led to numerous injuries and fatalities across India.
Following the incidents on Saturday, the Ratlam district administration has initiated a crackdown on sellers. Raids are currently being conducted in various areas to confiscate banned reels and penalize vendors. Officials have reiterated that the use, sale, and storage of Chinese manjha is a prosecutable offense under environmental and public safety regulations.
Point of View
I emphasize our commitment to bringing attention to the persistent dangers posed by illegal kite-flying practices in India. The recent injuries in Ratlam serve as a stark reminder of the need for stringent enforcement of existing bans on harmful materials like Chinese manjha, ensuring the safety of our communities during festive celebrations.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chinese manjha?
Chinese manjha is a synthetic kite string coated with glass powder, known for its cutting ability but banned due to its dangerous nature.
Why is Chinese manjha banned?
The National Green Tribunal and local authorities have banned Chinese manjha due to its potential to cause severe injuries and environmental hazards.
How can the sale of Chinese manjha be stopped?
Local administrations are conducting raids and enforcing prohibitory orders to prevent the sale and distribution of Chinese manjha.
What are the consequences of using Chinese manjha?
Using Chinese manjha can result in serious injuries, legal penalties, and environmental harm.
What steps are authorities taking to curb this issue?
Authorities are actively raiding localities, seizing banned manjha, and penalizing vendors to ensure public safety.
