Belagavi police warn against use of ‘manja’ after 19-year-old dies in kite-string accident
Superintendent of Police K. Ramrajan said the incident was a reminder of the risks posed by manja, particularly during the festival season when kite-flying activities increase.
The Belagavi police have called upon citizens to refrain from using hazardous kite strings, particularly 'manja', during the Dasara festivities following the tragic death of a 19-year-old youth on October 1. Superintendent of Police K. Ramrajan highlighted the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with manja, especially during the festival period when kite-flying activities escalate.
The deceased, Dhruva Santosh Karjagi, was riding his motorcycle towards his home in Mahantesh Nagar when the kite string became entangled around his neck, causing a severe cut and leading to his untimely demise. A case has been filed at the Belagavi North Traffic Police Station. Ramrajan emphasized the need for caution during kite flying and urged people to prioritize safety over festive celebrations.
He stated that the sale and usage of manja had been previously banned, and the police would intensify vigilance to prevent its sale during the festival. Mayor Preeti Kamkar of Belagavi City Corporation echoed the police's concern, expressing grief over the loss and promising strict action against shops selling the prohibited string.
She vowed to inspect shops within her jurisdiction to ensure compliance and announced that the issue would be deliberated upon at the upcoming corporation council meeting. Both the police and civic authorities have stressed the importance of exercising caution while flying kites and avoiding strings that could endanger pedestrians, motorists, two-wheeler riders, and birds.
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