Delhi Police Seize Banned Kite-Flying Strings After Hearing From PETA India
After receiving a complaint from PETA India, Delhi police seized several sacks of manja (sharp kite-flying strings made of cotton thread laced with glass, metal, or other sharp materials) from various market vendors in India’s capital city
The traders were found to be selling manja openly, even though the Delhi government banned the sale, production, storage, supply, import, and use of all forms of manja in order to prevent harm to humans, birds, and other animals as well as the environment. Kite flying in the city is permitted only using a cotton thread free of any materials designed to increase its sharpness or strength.
If traders are found to be violating India’s Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and related legislation, they face up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of roughly £1,100, or both.
Four humans, including two 3-year-old children, were killed by sharp manja in Delhi in 2016, and thousands of birds die every year when they’re cut or trapped by the strings, which can get caught on trees or buildings and remain there for weeks. A bird hospital in Delhi treated nearly 700 birds who had been injured in just the three days surrounding India’s Independence Day celebrations last year.
What You Can Do
Every day, humans raze wild animals’ habitats, destroy their homes, and kill those who are simply trying to survive and raise their families – including in Britain. You can protect British wildlife by understanding the challenges animals face and learning how you can help prevent their suffering and come to their aid.
