A fatal encounter with Chinese manja in Lucknow’s bustling Bazarkhala has spurred Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath into decisive action. Syed Shoaib, a 34-year-old resident of Dubagga, met a gruesome end on Wednesday when the lethal thread sliced through his neck as he rode his motorcycle across Haiderganj overbridge. Bystanders’ desperate efforts to save him failed, and he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Shaken by the incident, CM Yogi has escalated the fight against this public menace. In a strongly worded directive, he has reclassified all future deaths from Chinese manja as homicides, stripping away any notion of accident. This policy shift aims to deter the rampant trade in the dangerous import, which has repeatedly proven deadly across the state.
Orders have been issued for blanket bans on manufacturing, selling, and distributing the product. District police superintendents must conduct thorough searches and seizures, while public awareness drives highlight the risks. ‘We will not tolerate killers disguised as kite strings,’ Yogi emphasized, vowing relentless enforcement.
The dangers of Chinese manja are well-documented: its super-fine, chemical-infused composition cuts through flesh like a blade. Past tragedies include grievous wounds to eyes, throats, and limbs, affecting everyone from children to adults. Now, with regular oversight from the top echelons of government, officials are empowered to act decisively against violators.
This crackdown extends beyond urban centers to every village and town, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Traders stocking the banned item risk severe legal repercussions, fostering a safer environment for kite-flying traditions. As the state mobilizes, residents are encouraged to embrace eco-friendly, non-lethal options and stay vigilant against illegal sales.