Court Directs Authorities to Implement Strict Measures and Public Awareness Campaigns to Prevent Accidents and Casualties
In a significant move to ensure public safety during the upcoming Makar Sankranti festival, the Madhya Pradesh High Court, Indore Bench, has issued a stringent directive to enforce the ban on the use, sale, manufacture, and storage of Chinese Nylon Thread, commonly known as Manja. The court's decision comes in response to its Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation (PIL) registered on December 8, 2025, due to rising incidents of accidents and casualties caused by the hazardous thread.
The bench, comprising Justices Vijay Kumar Shukla and Alok Awasthi, emphasized the urgent need to prevent any mishaps during the kite-flying festivities on January 14, 2026. The court's order mandates the Commissioner Police, Collectors, and Superintendents of Police across several districts including Indore, Ujjain, Dewas, and others, to ensure the stringent implementation of the ban.
Highlighting the legal implications, the court pointed out that violators, including those found selling or using the thread, would face legal action under Section 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which corresponds to Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code. The court also underscored that guardians could be held accountable if minors are found using the banned thread.
To reinforce compliance, the court directed state authorities to launch extensive public awareness campaigns via print and social media. These campaigns aim to educate the public about the legal consequences and the potential dangers associated with the use of Chinese Manja.
During the hearing, the learned Amicus Curiae, Shri Vivek Sharan, emphasized the need for immediate precautionary measures and a robust action plan to curb the circulation of the banned thread. The court also took note of the proactive measures already being implemented, including a device introduced by the Superintendent of Police, Ujjain, to prevent accidents, which will be shared with other districts.
Furthermore, Shri Shivam Verma, the Collector of Indore, assured the court that he would issue necessary orders for immediate compliance, ensuring the directives are disseminated to all concerned districts promptly.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for January 16, 2026, to review the progress and effectiveness of the measures implemented. As the festival approaches, the court's directive serves as a critical step in safeguarding the public and preventing any unfortunate incidents.
Bottom Line:
Use, sale, manufacture, and storage of Chinese Nylon Thread (Manja) banned to prevent accidents and casualties, particularly during kite-flying festivals like Makar Sankranti. Authorities directed to take strict measures, including public awareness campaigns and legal action against violators.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Section 106(1) (Corresponding to Section 304A IPC)
