Written by J.D. Nagpal :- The land of Punjab has always been vibrant with colors, culture, and celebrations. The festival of Basant, the soaring of kites, and festivities celebrated under the open sky have long been an important part of our tradition. Sadly, however, these joys have today turned into a threat to life because of dangerous materials like Chinese kite string and gattu.
Chinese kite string, which appears to be an ordinary kite thread, has in reality become a deadly weapon made with glass and chemical substances. Every year in Punjab, this string causes the deaths of youngsters, children, motorcyclists, and even birds. Severed throats, serious injuries, loss of eyesight, and damage to hands—such incidents have now become alarmingly common and pose a grave concern for society.
As an artist and anchor, I remain closely connected with people. Every year, I hear heartbreaking stories where parents lose their beloved children simply because someone used Chinese string for fun. The question we must ask ourselves is—can our entertainment ever be greater than someone’s life?
Although the government has imposed a ban on Chinese kite string, its implementation on the ground still appears weak. This string continues to be sold covertly in markets. Those who manufacture and sell gattu are enemies of society, as they are directly playing with human lives.
Chinese kite string is not only deadly for humans but also for birds and animals. Helpless birds get entangled in these strings while flying and die a painful death. Can we truly call ourselves a cultured and compassionate society if we witness all this and still remain silent?
The solution to this problem is not the government’s responsibility alone; it is a shared responsibility of us all. Parents must educate their children about the dangers of Chinese kite string. Schools, colleges, and social organizations should run awareness campaigns. The media must also take up this issue with seriousness and commitment.
J. D. Nagpal makes a special appeal to the youth of Punjab—fly kites, celebrate, but use safe and traditional kite string. True happiness is that which does not put anyone’s life at risk. Using Chinese kite string is not only illegal but also immoral.
In conclusion, I urge the government, administration, and the general public to come together and take a firm resolve to completely eradicate Chinese kite string and gattu. Let us give future generations a Punjab that is safe, sensitive, and rooted in humanity.
Remember—only that joy is real which does not take a life.
KL JIT WALIA
