According to police officials, the operation was launched after the police received specific information from an informant about the sale of prohibited Chinese manja in the area. Acting swiftly, a police team reached the spot near Nanakheda Stadium, where two individuals carrying plastic bags were seen attempting to sell the kite thread.
The police intercepted and searched the suspects, leading to the recovery of 12 spools of Chinese manja. The seized material, branded “MONO KTC,” is known for its sharp, glass-coated composition and has been banned due to the serious injuries and fatalities it has caused in the past.
The accused was identified as Fardeen Khan, 19, son of Farid Khan and a resident of Agar Malwa district. He was accompanied by a minor, whose identity has been withheld as per legal provisions. Preliminary questioning revealed that both had travelled to Ujjain specifically to sell the banned kite thread during the kite-flying season.
Police officials said the estimated market value of the seized manja is around ₹3,000. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the law prohibiting the sale, possession and use of Chinese manja. Further legal action is being initiated against the adult accused, while the minor has been dealt with under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.
Speaking on the operation, police officers reiterated that the sale and use of Chinese manja is strictly prohibited across Madhya Pradesh. The synthetic thread, often coated with abrasive material, poses a serious threat to pedestrians, motorists, birds and animals. Several incidents of severe injuries, including fatal throat cuts to two-wheeler riders and harm to birds, have been reported in previous years.
Authorities have intensified enforcement drives ahead of festivals and peak kite-flying periods to curb the circulation of banned manja. Police teams have been instructed to maintain vigilance in marketplaces, busy intersections and residential areas.
Ujjain police have also appealed to citizens to refrain from purchasing or using illegal kite strings and to report any information related to their sale. Officials warned that strict action will be taken against violators, including seizure of goods and prosecution under applicable laws.
The crackdown, police said, will continue as part of broader efforts to ensure public safety and prevent avoidable accidents linked to the use of hazardous kite-flying materials.
