The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has taken a stern stance against the persistent use of banned nylon manja, proposing hefty financial penalties for violators. Expressing deep frustration over administrative inaction, the court indicated it would impose harsh punitive measures, including significant fines on adults, parents, and sellers for each violation of the nylon manja ban in Nagpur.
Court's Proposed Penalty Structure
A division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Rajnish Vyas, hearing a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL), laid out a stringent framework. The bench questioned why a fine of Rs 50,000 should not be imposed on adults caught using the hazardous kite thread. It further proposed that a similar penalty of Rs 50,000 be levied on parents if the banned manja is found with minors under their care.
For suppliers and sellers, who facilitate the availability of the material, the court suggested a substantially higher penalty of Rs 2.5 lakh for each violation. The bench had taken suo motu cognisance of the issue after numerous orders to curb the sale and use of nylon manja went unheeded by authorities.
Administration's Failure and Supply Chain Questions
The court repeatedly expressed its displeasure at the administration's failure to enforce the ban effectively. On Tuesday, the judges rebuked enforcement agencies for the continued, unchecked sale of the banned thread. The High Court pointedly asked why authorities had failed to choke the supply chain despite knowing the well-established transport routes into the city.
Verbalising its disbelief at official claims of action, the bench remarked that the hazardous string does not magically "fly into the city from the sky." It demanded answers, asking, "This manja reaches Nagpur in bulk, by road or rail? Why aren't those routes effectively policed?"
Deadlines and Directives for Authorities
The court has issued specific directives with clear deadlines. It ordered district collectors to issue public notices by December 27, 2025, outlining the proposed fines and inviting objections. The notice must state why adults and parents should not be fined Rs 50,000 and why sellers and suppliers should not face a Rs 2.5 lakh penalty.
Anyone wishing to object to this proposed framework must appear in person at the next hearing scheduled for January 5, 2026. The court clarified that if no objections are raised, the penalty structure will be finalised. Additionally, the bench issued a warning to Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs), holding them personally responsible if any untoward incident occurs due to nylon manja within their jurisdiction.
The Human and Animal Cost of Inaction
The court's strong intervention stems from the severe annual toll taken by nylon manja, especially during the Makar Sankranti festival. The bench highlighted that serious accidents, including fatalities, occur every year in Nagpur, affecting humans, animals, and birds. Despite repeated incidents of necks being slashed and two-wheeler riders suffering injuries, the use of the dangerous thread has not ceased.
Nylon manja, coated with glass or metal, is non-biodegradable and extremely sharp, causing lethal injuries to people and wildlife. The court's move aims to create a deterrent strong enough to finally end this public safety menace.
During the proceedings, Advocate Nishchay Jadhav appeared as the amicus curiae (friend of the court). Advocate Deepak Thakre represented the state government, and advocate SS Sanyal appeared for the State Pollution Control Board.
