The Delhi High Court has directed the city police to continue monitoring and registering cases to avoid deaths and injuries caused by Chinese manjha, used for kite-flying.
The high court took note of the status reports filed by the Delhi Police, from which it emerged that continuous monitoring is also being carried out in wholesale and retail markets along with shop owners’ associations to ensure that the sale of Chinese manjha is curbed to the maximum.
“Needless to add, the Delhi Police shall continue its continuous monitoring and regular registration of cases so that injuries and deaths due to Chinese manjha can be avoided to the maximum possible extent,” Justice Prathiba M Singh said.
The high court was hearing four cases related to the deaths of four people after their throats got slit by threads made of polyester, nylon, plastic, or any other synthetic material, also known as Chinese manjha, which was being used for flying kites in the national capital.
The pleas were filed by the family members of the victims, who have sought action against those responsible and compensation from the authorities.
In compliance with the court’s earlier order, the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) filed a report stating that the victims of Chinese manjha would be covered by the Delhi Victims Compensation Scheme, 2018. However, the statute does provide for the maximum amount of compensation that can be paid.
The maximum compensation for loss of life under the scheme is Rs 10 lakh. It listed the matter for further hearing on November 1.
