LAHORE: The Lahore district administration has imposed Section 144 to ensure the peaceful and safe celebration of the traditional Basant festival, banning kites carrying religious, political or national symbols to prevent any untoward incident.
According to an official notification, the preparation, sale, purchase and use of kites featuring images of holy books, religious sites, personalities, political parties or national flags have been strictly prohibited to maintain religious harmony and law and order during the festival.
The ban, imposed for 30 days under Section 144, applies to all forms of kites carrying religious or political prints. However, authorities clarified that the flying of plain single or multicolour kites without any images or symbols will be allowed during Basant.
The notification further stated that the manufacturing, storage, sale or use of illegal kites will be treated as a punishable offence, and strict legal action will be taken against violators.
Sources said the decision was taken amid concerns that miscreants could exploit the festival by using religious or political symbols, potentially disturbing public order.
Section 144 has come into force with immediate effect, and law enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the restrictions.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has granted conditional permission to celebrate a “secured Basant” from February 6 to 8. Deputy Commissioner Lahore has issued the Basant 2026 notification under the recently enacted Punjab Kite-Flying Act 2025, passed by the Punjab Assembly.
To enhance public safety, authorities have also planned additional precautionary measures, including the installation of safety nets and wire-protection systems on major roads to prevent accidents. Officials have reiterated that Basant celebrations will be allowed only under strict safety compliance, aiming to create a safe and festive environment for residents of Lahore.
