Judicial Activism Panel on Tuesday challenged in the Lahore High Court (LHC) the notification, greenlighting the celebration of Basant. Making the government of Punjab and others respondents in the petition, the plaintiff said that through the notification, Lahore deputy commissioner (DC) had allowed three-day Basant celebrations.

The petitioner reminded the high court that in the past too, several people lost their lives after kite strings slit their throats. “Only two days ago, a two-year-old baby girl had been injured after she came into contact with a string; therefore, it is prayed to

the court to order the deputy commissioner to withdraw the notification, permitting kite flying,” read the petition. The Lahore deputy commissioner (DC) on Monday gave the formal go-ahead for celebrating Basant in the district from February 6-8,

explaining the terms and conditions, as well as restrictions for the festival and consequences of their violations. It was stated in the notification: “In exercise of powers conferred under section 6(1) of the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance, 2025 and in pursuance of approval of the government, it is hereby notified that kite-flying is allowed within the

territorial limits of District Lahore on the occasion of Basant 2026,” subject to conditions.The way for the revival of Basant in Lahore after 18 years was paved by the passing of the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill, 2025 by the Punjab Assembly on December 24.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)