LAHORE: The Lahore administration has enforced Section 144 to facilitate the celebration of the traditional Basant festival while preventing any untoward incidents during the three-day event scheduled from February 6 to 8.
Under the government order, kites displaying images of holy books, religious sites, political parties, national flags, or public figures will be strictly prohibited to maintain religious harmony and law and order. Authorities have also banned the preparation, sale, purchase, and use of kites carrying religious or political symbols for a period of 30 days.
Only single-colour or multicolour kites without any images or prints will be allowed during the festival. The preparation, storage, sale, or use of illegal kites has been declared a punishable offence, and law enforcement agencies have been instructed to take action against violators.
Sources said the restrictions were imposed amid concerns that miscreants could exploit the festival by using religious or political symbols. Section 144 has taken immediate effect, with officials directed to ensure strict enforcement.
The Punjab government has granted conditional approval for the celebration of a secure Basant festival, while the Deputy Commissioner Lahore has issued the Basant 2026 notification under the recently enacted Punjab Kite-Flying Act 2025.
Authorities have also planned extensive safety arrangements, including the installation of safety nets and wire-protection systems along major roads, to prevent accidents. Officials have reiterated that Basant will only be permitted under strict safety measures to ensure a safe and festive environment for the residents of Lahore.
