Ahead of the Sankranti festival, the Hyderabad City Police have stepped up a special enforcement drive against the sale, storage and transportation of banned Chinese Manja (synthetic/nylon kite string), seizing contraband worth ₹1.24 crore so far.
Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad, Sri V.C. Sajjanar, IPS, said that while Sankranti is a festival of joy and tradition, celebrations should not come at the cost of human lives, bird safety or environmental protection. Reiterating a zero tolerance policy towards Chinese Manja, he warned that strict criminal action will be taken against violators, including those selling or purchasing the banned material through online platforms and social media.
The police have also cautioned citizens and parents about the serious risks posed by Chinese Manja, which has caused severe injuries, fatalities, and electric shock incidents in the past, particularly affecting children and two-wheeler riders. The public has been urged to use only traditional cotton kite strings and to report violations by dialing 100 or via WhatsApp at 94906 16555.
Enforcement Highlights (so far):
- 103 cases registered
- 143 persons arrested
- 6,226 bobbins seized
- Contraband worth ₹1.24 crore confiscated
Zone wise Seizures:
- South West Zone: Highest seizures worth ₹65.30 lakh
- South Zone: Seizures worth ₹37.22 lakh
- Other zones also reported multiple cases, arrests, and recoveries
The Commissioner’s Task Force played a key role in the drive, accounting for 67 cases, 87 arrests and seizures worth ₹68.78 lakh.
On the occasion, Commissioner Sajjanar congratulated the officers and staff involved in the enforcement drive and presented cash awards in recognition of their dedicated efforts.
The Hyderabad Police have once again appealed to the public to cooperate in ensuring a safe and joyful festival.
Say NO to Chinese Manja. Celebrate Sankranti safely.
