With the Basant festival set to return to Lahore after an 18-year hiatus, the Punjab government on Monday banned the manufacturing, sale, and use of kites displaying political party flags, religious symbols, or national emblems for 30 days.
The move comes amid concerns that such kites could be misused to create unrest or disrupt festival activities.
The Punjab Home Department issued a notification imposing Section 144, prohibiting the purchase, transport, trade, storage, and use of kites featuring images of any person, religious site, holy scripture, country’s flag, or political party symbols.
Only plain, uni-coloured, or multi-coloured kites will be allowed during the festival.
Festival Dates and Safety Guidelines
The Basant festival celebrations in Lahore are scheduled from February 6 to 8, 2026, and authorities have emphasized that kite flying is allowed solely for recreational and festive purposes.
The ban on image-based kites will remain in effect for 30 days, starting from Monday, to ensure public safety, prevent discrimination, and maintain order during the festival.
Officials urged residents and vendors to comply with the notification and warned that violations could lead to legal action under Section 144.
The government aims to revive Basant celebrations while ensuring a secure and peaceful environment for participants.
