Bhopal, Dec 24, 2025: The Bhopal Police Commissioner, Harinarayan Chari Mishra, has issued a strict prohibitory order banning the sale, use, and storage of Chinese kite string, commonly known as Chinese Manja, within the Bhopal metropolitan limits. The order comes into force immediately and will remain valid for two months in light of rising concerns over injuries linked to the hazardous kite string ahead of the Sankranti festival.
The decision follows repeated reports from the public and media about serious injuries to pedestrians, two‑wheeler riders, and wildlife particularly birds caused by the glass‑coated synthetic kite string. Authorities said the high‑tensile, sharp string poses a grave risk to human safety and animal life, especially during the upcoming festive period when kite‑flying activities surge.
Details of the Ban and Enforcement
The prohibition order issued under Section 163(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 bars individuals, vendors, and organizations from selling, storing, or using Chinese Manja in Bhopal. Authorities have warned that violating the order will attract legal action under Section 223 of the BNSS, 2023.
Officials have stressed that while the ban is urgent for public safety, any group or individual seeking relaxation or exemption from the order may apply formally for a hearing.
Safety Hazards and Previous Incidents
Chinese Manja kite string made strong and sharp by synthetic fibers often coated with glass or metal has been linked to numerous injuries and fatalities across India, including serious cuts to riders and pedestrians as kites and strings spread across open areas and roads.
Similar actions have been taken in other parts of the country to curb hazards posed by such strings. For example, police in Rajasthan’s Bhilwara district recently seized over 150 spools of banned kite string and arrested six people associated with its sale or use, as authorities emphasized the risks to birds and passers‑by.
Safety advocates and police continue to encourage kite fliers to choose traditional cotton threads, which are safer and less harmful to humans, animals, and the environment.