LHC to pronounce verdict on plea seeking Basant across Punjab tomorrow
Punjab government report outlines safety measures for kite flying: Petitioner claims authorities failed to issue uniform guidelines across province
The Lahore High Court (LHC) has reserved its verdict on a petition seeking permission to celebrate the Basant festival across Punjab, with the court expected to announce its decision on Friday.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, Justice Malik Awais Khalid heard the petition filed by Ms Ashba Kamran regarding the celebration of Basant in all cities of Punjab.
During the hearing, the Punjab Home Department submitted its report before the court, outlining the government’s position and proposed safety arrangements.
According to the report submitted by the Punjab Home Department, deputy commissioners may allow Basant celebrations on specific days after obtaining approval from the government.
The report also stated that the concerned deputy commissioner would be responsible for ensuring public safety before permitting the festival.
It further explained that the deputy commissioner would ensure the implementation of all safety measures outlined in the law and would make sure citizens comply with them.
The report also stated that kite sellers and manufacturers would be required to register themselves with authorities, while the use of metallic or other hazardous strings would remain completely banned.
In addition, authorities would ensure that motorcyclists use safety rods to prevent injuries during the kite-flying festivities, the report said.
The report also mentioned that the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore had allowed Basant celebrations after fulfilling all legal requirements and requested the court to dismiss the petition.
During Thursday’s hearing, the petitioner presented arguments regarding the legal status of her petition and maintained that it was the government’s responsibility to facilitate Basant celebrations across Punjab. She alleged that facts had been concealed in the response submitted by the home secretary.
The petitioner further told the court that initially only the deputy commissioner of Lahore had been instructed to consider Basant celebrations, while deputy commissioners in other districts had not been issued any guidelines regarding the festival.
The court reserved its judgement after hearing arguments from both sides and is expected to announce its decision on Friday.