Hyderabad Police Cracks Down on Dangerous Chinese Manja Ahead of Sankranti

As the Sankranti festival approaches, Hyderabad Police has intensified its crackdown on the illegal Chinese manja, seizing contraband worth Rs 43 lakh. The operation aims to curb the sale and distribution of this dangerous kite string, which poses serious risks to both humans and wildlife. With numerous injuries reported, including severe neck wounds, authorities are urging the public to celebrate safely. Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar has warned that strict action will be taken against those involved in the trade of this banned material. Read on to learn more about the police's efforts and the impact of Chinese manja on public safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 15:55 IST

Intensified Enforcement Against Chinese Manja

Hyderabad, Jan 12: In preparation for the Sankranti festival, the Hyderabad Police have ramped up their efforts against the illegal Chinese manja, confiscating contraband valued at Rs 43 lakh over the past four days.

The authorities have heightened their crackdown on the sale, storage, and distribution of the prohibited synthetic nylon kite string within the city limits.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar announced on Monday that this special operation is being conducted citywide. Between January 8 and January 11, law enforcement seized 2,150 bobbins of the dangerous material.

The Commissioner shared on social media that 29 cases have been filed against individuals involved in the trade, leading to the arrest of 57 suspects.

He emphasized that the use of this banned manja poses significant risks to the environment, wildlife, and human safety.

In the previous month alone, police recorded 132 incidents related to this issue, resulting in the seizure of 8,376 bobbins worth Rs 1.68 crore and the arrest of 200 individuals.

Sajjanar warned that those caught selling or purchasing the banned manja could face imprisonment. He urged the public to use safe kite strings and enjoy the Sankranti festivities responsibly.

"Kites should fly high, not at the expense of innocent lives! The Chinese manja does not break easily; it can cause severe injuries to humans and birds. Your momentary happiness should not lead to lasting grief for others. Strict action will be taken against anyone involved in the sale or use of this dangerous material. Celebrate the festival safely," he stated in another post.

Recently, six motorcyclists, including a constable and a student, have been injured due to the Chinese manja, suffering serious neck injuries.

In one incident, a 33-year-old man sustained a severe shoulder cut from the manja while riding his bike in Gachibowli on Sunday.

K. Surya Teja, an employee at a software firm, was injured on the SLN Terminal flyover and was promptly taken to a hospital for treatment.