Hubballi-Dharwad Police Crack Down on Illegal Manja Threads, Register 16 Cases

HUBBALLI: The Hubballi-Dharwad city police have intensified their crackdown on the sale and use of hazardous manja, conducting special enforcement operations across the twin cities to curb the circulation of dangerous glass-coated kite strings.

During the operation, police inspected 124 locations, checked 67 shops and identified 69 spots where the hazardous strings were being used. Authorities also seized manja reels and kites and registered 16 cases against alleged violators under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Police Conduct Raids Across Multiple Areas

The enforcement drive covered several police station jurisdictions, with seizures reported from different parts of Hubballi-Dharwad. Bendigeri police seized three reels of manja and two kites. Old Hubballi police registered two separate cases, with the reported recovery including 89 reels and six kites. APMC Navanagar police seized three reels, while Kasabapete police recovered 30 reels.

The operation reflects the police department's efforts to prevent the sale, storage and use of dangerous kite strings. Such enforcement measures are particularly important during kite-flying seasons, when the use of hazardous manja can increase the risk of serious injuries.

Safety Concerns Over Hazardous Manja

Synthetic and glass-coated manja poses a significant threat to public safety. The sharp strings can cause severe cuts to pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, especially when they become stretched across roads or remain suspended in public spaces. Birds are also vulnerable to injuries and entanglement, making the use of these strings a concern for urban wildlife.

Unlike ordinary cotton kite strings, hazardous manja can remain sharp and cause injuries even after being discarded. Its use in crowded urban areas increases the danger to road users and other members of the public.

Police Warn of Continued Enforcement

City police officials have warned that the special operations will continue and that strict legal action will be taken against those found stocking, selling or using prohibited manja. The department has urged residents and shopkeepers to comply with applicable restrictions and avoid materials that could endanger human lives and wildlife.

The crackdown serves as a reminder that responsible kite-flying practices are essential for community safety. Residents can help prevent accidents by avoiding hazardous strings and reporting the sale or use of prohibited manja to the appropriate authorities.