‘Case of culpable homicide for deaths due to Chinese Manja’:HC says, ‘Parents of minors using strings will be held legally responsible’; calls fatal accident despite ban ‘unfortunate’

The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s Indore bench has taken a strict stance on the increasing fatalities caused by banned Chinese kite strings, commonly known as “Chinese manja.”
During Monday’s hearing, the court noted that despite the ban, deadly incidents continue to occur, and strict measures are needed to prevent them. Non-intentional homicide charges for fatalities The court directed that if someone dies due to a Chinese manja, the responsible individual will face charges under Section 106(1) of the BNS Act for non-intentional homicide. The High Court clarified that anyone caught selling or using Chinese manja will face direct criminal action. Moreover, if minors are found using the banned strings, their parents will be held accountable and cases will be registered against them. Three deaths in Indore highlight the danger The court highlighted that in recent months, three people have died in Indore due to Chinese manja. In addition, numerous individuals have been injured, and a large number of birds have been killed after getting entangled in these strings. With Makar Sankranti on 14 January—a festival known for increased kite flying—the risk of accidents from banned strings remains high, the court observed. Reports from 14 districts to be submitted During the hearing, senior advocates Vivek Sharan and Akash Sharma suggested that, ahead of Makar Sankranti, reports on measures and action plans taken in Indore and the 14 districts under the High Court’s jurisdiction should be submitted. The next hearing is scheduled for 16 January, with Collector Shivam Verma also present in court. Government conducts awareness campaigns The administration stated that alongside the ban, a wide-reaching public awareness campaign is being conducted to highlight the dangers of Chinese manja. Actions are being taken to stop sales, and special equipment is being used to prevent accidents. The High Court had already issued clear instructions on 11 December 2025 for Indore and surrounding districts. Victim’s testimony highlights risk During the hearing, lawyer Kavita Uike shared her personal experience, stating that her throat had been cut by Chinese manja. She saved herself by breaking the string with her hands, which left her palm seriously injured. The court expressed sympathy and instructed the administration to take even stricter measures.