LAHORE:
LAHORE
With Basant set to return under close surveillance, authorities have decided to close the celebration tightly, banning kites carrying political, religious or provocative images after photographs of kites bearing images of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan surfaced on social media, sparking concerns over law and order at a politically sensitive time.
With the festival scheduled for February 6-8, coinciding with the PTI’s call for protest on February 8, the provincial administration has enforced Section 144 across Lahore, cutting off any attempt to turn the festive sky into a political or religious forum.
The order prohibits images of political leaders, religious figures, sacred books, religious sites, national flags and political party symbols on kites.
The restrictions will remain in effect for 30 days.
Under these orders, the manufacture, sale, transportation, storage and use of kites bearing religious or political motifs were clearly prohibited.
During Basant, only plain, single-colored or multi-colored kites, without any images, will be allowed. Authorities said the measures were introduced amid concerns that provocative elements could exploit the festival to promote religious or political messages.
The restrictions took effect immediately, with law enforcement agencies tasked with taking strict action against violators.
The Punjab government has permitted a conditional and closely regulated Basant festival in Lahore from February 6 to 8, by issuing an official notification under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said the government had permitted Basant strictly as a recreational and cultural event, warning that no violation of the law would be tolerated.
The restrictions are aimed at maintaining public order and safeguarding religious sentiments during the festival, the spokesperson added.
