The Deadly String: Maharashtra Deputy Chairperson Demands Urgent Action Against Banned Manja

You know that vibrant sight, kites dancing against a clear sky, especially around festivals like Makar Sankranti? It’s a beautiful tradition, steeped in joy and community spirit. But lurking within that tradition, for some time now, has been a silent, insidious killer: the nylon manja. This isn't your innocent cotton string; it's a synthetic menace, often coated with razor-sharp glass powder or metal, turning a harmless pastime into a deadly game.

And here’s the truly frustrating part: despite a nationwide ban, firmly in place since a 2017 order from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), this lethal thread is still readily available. It’s a baffling, tragic oversight, leading to unimaginable suffering for both people and our precious wildlife. The consequences are, frankly, horrifying.

That's why Dr. Neelam Gorhe, the formidable Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, has stepped forward with an urgent and impassioned plea. She recently implored the state government to take immediate, iron-fisted action to stamp out the sale and use of this deadly nylon manja. Her message was clear: enough is enough; we can no longer afford to look the other way.

The stories she brought to light are nothing short of heartbreaking. Imagine a pregnant woman, her life and the life within her, jeopardized because her throat was brutally slashed by one of these rogue strings. Or a beautiful bird, its wings — its very freedom — cruelly severed, leaving it to suffer and likely perish. These aren't isolated incidents; they're tragic symptoms of a widespread, unaddressed problem. It’s truly difficult to read about such senseless pain.

Dr. Gorhe didn't just highlight the problem; she also laid out a clear path forward. She’s calling for a multi-pronged approach: vigilant policing, active involvement from local authorities, and, crucially, massive public awareness campaigns. People need to understand the grave danger this material poses, not just to others but also potentially to their own loved ones. And, as a matter of accountability, she's requested a detailed report on the actions taken to tackle this menace.

This isn't just about adhering to a ban; it's about protecting lives. The synthetic nature of nylon manja means it doesn't break easily, and its sharp coating can cause severe, often fatal, injuries – from deep cuts on the neck and face to permanent disabilities. It's also a significant environmental hazard, non-biodegradable and entangling animals long after it’s been discarded. It's a lose-lose situation, and Dr. Gorhe’s firm stance reminds us that inaction simply isn't an option anymore. Let's hope her words spark the decisive action needed to finally put an end to this unnecessary suffering.