Gujarat High Court Demands Stringent Action Against Manja
The Gujarat High Court has directed authorities to submit detailed reports on the enforcement of the ban on dangerous kite strings used during the annual Uttarayan festival. In response to public petitions, the court has raised serious concerns about the use of lethal Chinese, glass-coated, and nylon kite threads, which have been linked to numerous fatalities and injuries to both humans and animals. These concerns have led to the court’s order for a comprehensive review of the state government’s actions to curb the sale and use of such hazardous materials.
The case, which has caught significant public attention, was triggered by petitions filed by advocates Nimish Kapadia and Bhunesh Rupera. The petitioners have argued that the widespread use of these dangerous kite strings, which are often coated with glass and chemicals, has caused irreparable harm during previous festivals. Despite a national ban on these materials by the National Green Tribunal in 2017, the use of these strings has continued unabated, with tragic consequences. The court has specifically demanded reports from district magistrates and police commissioners of Gujarat’s four major cities—Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, and Vadodara—on the implementation of the ban.
Challenges in Enforcement and Government Response
The Gujarat High Court’s ruling on Wednesday highlighted critical gaps in enforcement efforts. While the state government assured the court that stringent actions would be taken, the bench noted that the home department’s affidavit had failed to specify any meaningful steps taken against the manufacturers of these dangerous kite strings. The court’s concerns were amplified by evidence suggesting that the production and sale of these strings may have started as early as December, in preparation for the Uttarayan festival, yet no substantial action had been reported.
During the hearing, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranab Trivedi expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of proactive measures. They underlined that district magistrates and police commissioners bear the responsibility for ensuring that the ban, as outlined in the government’s circular, is strictly enforced. Despite this, the government’s counsel requested more time to provide a detailed response, promising that tighter controls would be implemented in the lead-up to the festival. The court has set a deadline for the authorities to submit their action plans and responses by the upcoming Friday, which will be reviewed in the next hearing.
Public Safety and Environmental Concerns
The use of glass-coated kite strings, known colloquially as ‘manja,’ presents significant risks to public safety and the environment. These strings, which are often coated with sharp materials such as glass, are not only hazardous to people but also pose a serious threat to wildlife. Many birds have been found entangled in these strings, resulting in injuries and fatalities. The impact on the local ecosystem cannot be ignored, as the danger posed by these strings extends beyond human harm, affecting the biodiversity in urban areas, especially during festivals when the use of such kites peaks.
Moreover, the widespread use of manja threads highlights deeper issues concerning public health and sustainability. From a civic and environmental perspective, the unregulated sale and use of these harmful kite strings exacerbate the pollution problem, leaving behind dangerous remnants in public spaces. The adoption of environmentally friendly kite materials and better regulation of the festival market could reduce both harm to wildlife and public health risks. Promoting sustainable alternatives to these dangerous materials is critical for the long-term well-being of the city and its residents.
A Sustainable Approach to Festival Celebrations
While traditional kite flying is a cherished part of Gujarat’s culture, especially during the Uttarayan festival, the growing concerns over safety and environmental impact call for more sustainable practices. The introduction of non-toxic, biodegradable kite strings could significantly reduce the adverse effects on wildlife, human health, and the environment. Moreover, educational campaigns could raise awareness about the dangers of manja and encourage people to adopt safer, eco-friendly alternatives.
As the Gujarat High Court moves forward with its review, the state government must ensure that the ban on dangerous kite strings is not only implemented but enforced effectively. In the long run, fostering a culture of sustainability in festival celebrations can contribute to a safer and more environmentally responsible society. The outcome of this legal battle may well set a precedent for other regions grappling with similar issues surrounding the use of hazardous materials in public celebrations.
