Karnataka police intensify crackdown on manja after fatal kite string incident

Police in Karnataka have initiated a focused operation following the death of a woman whose throat was lacerated by a manja-coated kite string in Hubballi. The victim, aged 38, succumbed to injuries sustained from the razor-sharp coating applied to kite strings during flying activities. The incident has triggered renewed scrutiny of kite flying practices in the region and heightened concerns about public safety during festival seasons when the activity becomes widespread. The special drive aims to crack down on the sale and use of manja, a practice that has been prohibited in several Indian states due to recurring injuries and fatalities. Authorities are expected to intensify inspections and enforcement actions to prevent similar incidents and ensure compliance with existing regulations governing kite flying in residential areas. The operation represents ongoing efforts by law enforcement to balance traditional cultural practices with public health and safety imperatives.