The Lahore High Court has reserved its decision on a petition seeking permission to celebrate the Basant festival across Punjab. The verdict is expected to be announced on Friday.
Justice Malik Awais Khalid heard the petition filed by Ashba Kamran regarding the revival of Basant celebrations in different cities of the province.
During the hearing, the Punjab Home Department submitted a report explaining the government’s position and the safety measures proposed for the festival.
According to the report, deputy commissioners may allow Basant celebrations on specific days after receiving approval from the government. It added that the concerned deputy commissioner would be responsible for ensuring public safety before granting permission.
The report further stated that deputy commissioners would supervise the implementation of all legal safety measures and ensure that citizens follow them properly.
Authorities also proposed that kite sellers and manufacturers must register with the relevant departments. The use of metallic or other dangerous kite strings would remain strictly banned.
In addition, officials said steps would be taken to ensure that motorcyclists install safety rods on their bikes to prevent injuries during kite flying activities.
The report also mentioned that the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore had already permitted Basant celebrations after fulfilling legal requirements and requested the court to dismiss the petition.
During Thursday’s hearing, the petitioner presented arguments about the legal status of her request. She stated that it was the government’s responsibility to facilitate Basant celebrations throughout Punjab and claimed that some facts had been hidden in the report submitted by the home secretary.
The petitioner also told the court that earlier only the deputy commissioner of Lahore had been directed to review Basant celebrations, while officials in other districts had not been given clear guidelines.
After listening to arguments from both sides, the court reserved its verdict and will announce its decision on Friday.
