A motorcyclist in Indore lost his life after his throat was slit by banned Chinese manjha while riding through the city, reigniting concerns over weak enforcement and public safety ahead of the kite-flying season.

Raghubir Dhakad, a motorcyclist in Indore, died after a razor-sharp Chinese manjha got entangled around his neck while he was riding between Khajrana and Bengali Square.

Despite a statewide ban in Madhya Pradesh on the lethal synthetic kite string, its illegal sale and use continue, particularly during festive periods like Makar Sankranti.

Police have launched an investigation, reiterated warnings, and promised stricter enforcement, as the incident adds to a growing list of deaths and serious injuries caused by Chinese manjha in the city.

A Routine Commute Turns Fatal

What began as an ordinary commute ended in tragedy for Raghubir Dhakad, whose life was cut short by a strand of banned Chinese manjha on Indore’s busy roads. According to police officials, Dhakad was riding his motorcycle from the Khajrana area towards Bengali Square when the synthetic kite string suddenly became entangled around his neck. The razor-sharp thread slit his throat, causing severe bleeding and critical injuries.

Passers-by and locals rushed to help, and Dhakad was immediately taken to a nearby hospital. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

The incident sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood, with residents describing the scene as “deeply disturbing” and “terrifying”, especially for daily commuters who rely on two-wheelers for travel.

A senior police officer confirmed the details and said a case has been registered. “Chinese manjha is completely banned in Madhya Pradesh because of its extreme danger.

We are investigating how it was being used in this area and who is responsible for its illegal sale,” the official stated, adding that action would be taken against those found violating the ban.

A Banned Thread That Continues to Kill

Chinese manjha, a synthetic kite string often coated with glass or metal particles, is far more dangerous than traditional cotton thread. Its sharpness can easily cut through skin, tendons, and even protective gear, making it lethal for pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, animals, and birds.

Recognising these risks, the Madhya Pradesh government imposed a statewide ban on the manufacture, sale, storage, and use of Chinese manjha several years ago.

Violators can face fines as well as imprisonment. However, despite repeated crackdowns and public advisories, the banned string continues to find its way into markets through illegal channels.

Police officials admit that enforcement becomes particularly challenging during festive seasons such as Makar Sankranti, when kite flying peaks. “We conduct raids and seize banned manjha every year, but sellers often operate secretly. Public cooperation is crucial to stop this menace,” an official said.

A Pattern of Preventable Tragedies

Dhakad’s death is not an isolated incident. Indore, like several other cities across India, has witnessed multiple cases over the years where Chinese manjha has caused serious injuries and fatalities. From children and elderly pedestrians to delivery workers and stray animals, the list of victims continues to grow.

In previous incidents, riders have suffered deep neck cuts, permanent nerve damage, and in some cases, paralysis. Birds, especially pigeons and kites, are frequently found injured or dead after becoming entangled in the sharp string.

Animal welfare groups have repeatedly highlighted the ecological impact of Chinese manjha, calling it a silent killer that harms far beyond human victims.

Despite awareness campaigns and warnings issued by civic authorities, many citizens continue to underestimate the danger, often treating the ban as a formality rather than a life-saving measure.

Calls for Accountability and Stronger Enforcement

Following the latest incident, police have reiterated their commitment to stricter enforcement. Officials said additional patrols would be deployed, surveillance increased, and raids conducted in areas known for illegal sales of Chinese manjha. Citizens have also been urged to report sellers and refrain from buying or using banned kite strings.

However, residents and activists argue that reactive measures after deaths are not enough. “Every year, someone dies or is seriously injured, and then we hear the same assurances. Why does it take a life for action to be promised?” asked a local resident.

Road safety advocates have also stressed the need for better coordination between police, municipal bodies, and market regulators to prevent illegal stocking and distribution before festivals begin.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

This heartbreaking incident once again exposes how weak enforcement and public apathy can turn celebrations into calamities.

Festivals like Makar Sankranti symbolise joy, gratitude, and togetherness-but the continued use of Chinese manjha transforms them into periods of fear and loss for countless families.

At The Logical Indian, we believe that public safety cannot be compromised in the name of tradition or convenience.

Laws must be enforced firmly, sellers must be held accountable, and citizens must act with empathy and responsibility towards fellow humans, animals, and birds. Preventing such tragedies requires not just policing, but collective moral resolve