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LAHORE, Oct 08 (APP):A consultative meeting was held at the Punjab Home Department on Wednesday to consider the possibility of holding a safe and controlled Basant festival during the upcoming Jashn-e-Baharan celebrations, in accordance with public safety regulations.
The meeting was chaired by Secretary Home Punjab Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi and attended by senior officials and stakeholders including Commissioner Lahore Maryam Khan, DG Walled City Authority Najam-ul-Saqib, Additional Secretary Home Asma Ijaz Cheema, Additional Secretary Health Dr. Muhammad Waseem, GM Operations LESCO Ejaz Ahmed, SSP Security Abdul Wahab, Director Law Naeem Khan, members of civil society, legal experts, media representatives, and President All Pakistan Kite Flying Association Shakeel Sheikh.
According to Home Department spokesman, the participants reviewed proposed amendments to the existing kite flying prohibition law, aimed at allowing Basant in a safe, regulated, and limited manner. It was agreed that Basant would not be permitted in public spaces and could only be allowed under strict conditions and with prior approval.
As per the proposals discussed, no objection certificate (NOC) from the relevant deputy commissioner will be mandatory for organising Basant-related activities, property owners seeking to host events will be required to submit an affidavit ensuring implementation of all safety measures, all kite manufacturers, sellers, and suppliers must register with the district administration, the use of nylon, metal, or chemically coated string (manjha) will remain strictly prohibited.
Violations of the law will lead to cancellation of registration, heavy fines, and imprisonment, added spokesman.
The Home secretary directed the Walled City of Lahore Authority to conduct a public opinion survey regarding the safe celebration of Basant. LESCO officials also shared details of past incidents involving hazardous kite flying that caused damage to human life and infrastructure.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Javed Qazi stated that protecting human life is the top priority of the Punjab government and no activity that poses a risk to public safety can be permitted. He stressed that Basant could only be allowed if robust safety mechanisms are put in place.
Civil society members present at the meeting observed that a safe revival of the Basant festival could help promote cultural tourism and local employment opportunities. However, all participants unanimously agreed that Basant must only be allowed in a controlled and secure environment.
Further action will be taken based on the outcome of the public survey and legal review of the proposed amendments.