The Punjab government has announced strict restrictions ahead of the annual Basant festival, invoking Section 144 to maintain public order.
Basant, a spring kite-flying festival, has deep cultural roots in Lahore and other parts of Punjab. However, in recent years, it has also caused safety concerns and political tensions. Dangerous kite strings have caused serious injuries and fatalities. In response, the provincial government opted for tight regulation rather than an outright ban.
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According to an official notification, the government aims to preserve religious harmony and prevent unrest during the festivities.
Ban on Religious and Political Imagery on Kites
Authorities have prohibited kites carrying religious or political symbols for 30 days.
The notification states that people cannot manufacture, sell, buy, or use kites displaying sacred texts, religious sites, or images of personalities. Kites bearing national flags or political party symbols are also banned.
Officials worry that provocative imagery could inflame religious or political tensions and disturb public peace.
Instead, the government allows only plain kites, either single-coloured or multi-coloured. Any violation of this rule will result in legal action.
Authorities specifically warned that some groups might use the festival to spread provocative messages, rather than celebrate the occasion.
Section 144 Enforced Across Punjab
The government issued these restrictions under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code. This law allows authorities to ban activities that might cause unrest or endanger public safety.
The notification states that law enforcement must enforce the rules immediately and act firmly against violators.
Section 144 often applies to sensitive periods in Pakistan, such as religious events, political protests, and major festivals. Its use ahead of Basant shows the government’s concern about potential disorder.
Conditional Approval for Safe Basant in Lahore
The government has granted conditional approval for a Safe Basant in Lahore from February 6 to 8.
A Punjab Home Department spokesperson said the festival will run as a recreational and cultural event only. Officials will not tolerate any law-breaking.
The goal is to allow people to enjoy the festival while protecting public safety and respecting religious sentiments, the spokesperson said.
This decision reflects a shift from past bans toward a controlled and safer revival of the festival.
Total Ban on Hazardous Kite Strings
Officials have also imposed a total ban on dangerous kite strings.
Metallic wire, nylon strings, and glass-coated threads – commonly called chemical dor – cannot be used. These materials have caused fatal injuries to motorcyclists, pedestrians, and even birds in past festivals.
The government strictly prohibits the manufacture, transport, storage, sale, and use of such strings.
Heavy Penalties for Violations
Authorities introduced severe penalties to ensure compliance.
Flying kites before the approved dates can lead to five years in prison and fines up to 2 million rupees.
Individuals involved in producing or selling prohibited strings face seven years in prison and fines up to 5 million rupees.
These penalties are among the strictest ever imposed for Basant. They highlight the government’s focus on safety.
Balancing Tradition and Safety
Basant remains one of Lahore’s most vibrant cultural events, attracting tourists and boosting local businesses. At its peak, the festival contributed millions of rupees to the local economy.
Safety concerns led to a near-total ban for over a decade. Now, officials aim to revive the festival responsibly. They hope plain kites, banned dangerous strings, and strict punishments will ensure a safer celebration.
Looking Ahead
The success of these measures depends on enforcement and public cooperation.
Many residents welcome the return of Basant, even with restrictions. Officials stress the festival must remain a celebration of color and joy, not a source of danger or division.
As Punjab prepares for spring festivities, Lahore will show whether “Safe Basant” can finally live up to its name.
