Hyderabad Police Seize Chinese Manja Worth ₹1.24 Crore Ahead of Sankranti

Ahead of the Sankranti festival, Hyderabad Police have intensified enforcement against the sale and use of banned Chinese manja, issuing a stern warning to traders and kite flyers alike.

City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar reiterated that the police are following a “zero tolerance” policy against the illegal manufacture, storage, and sale of Chinese manja, which poses a serious threat to human life, birds, and the environment.

The Commissioner said the Central Government has banned Chinese manja , yet some traders continue to sell it illegally. Acting on specific inputs, police conducted special raids in the Golconda and Charminar zones , leading to the seizure of large quantities of banned manja.

Over the past one month, police operations across the city have resulted in the seizure of 6,226 spools of nylon and synthetic manja , valued at approximately ₹1.24 crore .

Over 100 Cases Registered, 143 Arrested:

As part of the special drive, police teams were deployed across markets and storage points to track down offenders. So far, 103 cases have been registered and 143 people arrested for violating the ban.

Investigations revealed that the banned manja was being sourced mainly from Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Delhi, and distributed locally through illegal networks.

Strict Action Against Online Sales:

Police also observed that some traders are attempting to bypass enforcement by selling Chinese manja through WhatsApp, social media platforms, and e-commerce websites.

Warning of stringent action, Commissioner Sajjanar said police are keeping a close watch on online platforms, adding that criminal cases will be booked even against e-commerce companies found delivering banned manja.

Banned Since 2016 Due to Safety Risks:

Chinese manja, made from synthetic or nylon threads coated with metallic substances, is highly dangerous. It can cause fatal injuries, electric shocks, and has been responsible for the deaths of birds and humans.

Citing these risks, the government imposed a ban on such manja in 2016. Police have urged the public to use traditional cotton thread instead, which is safe and eco-friendly.

Parents have been advised not to purchase dangerous manja for children and to ensure that kite flying during the festival remains safe and joyful.

Appeal to the Public:

Police have appealed to citizens to report anyone selling or storing Chinese manja in their neighbourhoods.

• Dial: 100

• WhatsApp: 9490616555

Authorities assured that strict action will be taken against violators to prevent accidents and ensure public safety during the festive season.