The Allahabad High Court has once again directed the Uttar Pradesh government to strictly enforce the ban on the manufacture, sale, and use of Chinese ‘manjha’ — the synthetic kite string known for causing serious injuries and even deaths.
The division bench of Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Kshitij Shailendra reiterated that the state must comply with earlier directions issued by the court in connection with the hazardous nature of Chinese manjha, especially during the peak kite flying season around Makar Sankranti.
The Court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Himanshu Srivastava and two others seeking a complete prohibition on the use of Chinese manjha. The petition pointed out that despite a clear order passed on November 19, 2015, by the High Court mandating action against Chinese manjha, its availability and use continue unabated in the market.
Noting the recurring nature of the problem, the bench observed that Chinese manjha poses grave danger not just to humans, but also to birds. It emphasised that the government is duty-bound to take proactive steps in line with the 2015 directions and similar rulings passed in subsequent matters.
After reaffirming its stance, the Court disposed of the PIL, directing the UP government to enforce the previously issued orders effectively.
