Police in New Washermenpet detained two young men for flying kites using prohibited manja thread. The manufacture, sale, and use of manja is banned in Greater Chennai due to its role in accidents.

Key Takeaways

  • Two individuals arrested in Sivan Nagar, New Washermenpet
  • Manja thread use for kite flying is prohibited in Chennai
  • Police seized manja thread and kites as evidence

On Sunday evening, officers from New Washermenpet police conducted surveillance on Sivan Nagar 3rd Street after receiving a tip. The team caught two suspects flying kites with banned manja thread and confiscated the thread and kites.

The arrested persons were identified as 20‑year‑old Surya and 21‑year‑old Prashanth, both residents of Sivan Nagar. They were taken into custody and booked under the city’s anti‑manja regulations.

Under the Greater Chennai Police Commissionerate, the manufacture, sale, and use of manja thread are prohibited because the metallic coating often causes severe injuries during kite festivals. The ban, tightened in 2022, follows a series of accidents linked to manja.

Historical Background

Manja was first banned in Chennai in 2019 after a tragic incident during a kite‑flying festival that resulted in a child’s death. The city subsequently imposed strict penalties on anyone involved in the production, distribution, or use of manja.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that consistent enforcement not only enhances public safety but also curtails illegal trade, leading to a measurable decline in kite‑related injuries.

"Manja‑induced injuries are often irreversible; strict enforcement is essential," says traffic‑safety expert Dr. Ajay Kumar.
Did You Know?: Manja thread accounts for roughly 30% of all kite‑flying injuries each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What exactly is manja thread and why is it dangerous?
A: Manja is a thin cotton thread coated with powdered glass or metal, designed to cut other kites but it can cause deep lacerations on skin.

Q2: What penalties do violators face?
A: In Chennai, offenders can be fined and face up to seven years imprisonment for manufacturing, selling, or using manja.