Is there another Basant in the works this year? Azma Bukhari has an answer

LAHORE: The much-anticipated Basant festival will return to Punjab next year, but not this year, according to Azma Bukhari, the Provincial Minister for Information and Culture.

In a statement, Bukhari confirmed that Basant will be celebrated in February 2027, but no option to mark the event this year is currently under consideration.

While people in a few cities, particularly Lahore, have celebrated the festival spontaneously in recent years, the government is determined to plan the next celebration with all necessary safety measures in place.

GOVT STEPS TOWARDS A SAFER BASANT

Meanwhile, in response to ongoing public demand, the Home Department has submitted a report to the Lahore High Court (LHC) regarding a petition filed for the celebration of Basant across Punjab. The report highlights several key steps for ensuring the safety of participants during the festival.

The Deputy Commissioner (DC) will play a central role in granting permission for Basant, but only after fulfilling all legal requirements, including the registration of kite sellers and kite makers. The law mandates that metal strings and dangerous threads be completely banned, while safety measures like safety rods for motorcyclists must be ensured.

SAFETY FIRST: STRINGENT RULES TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS

The Deputy Commissioner will be responsible for overseeing that all safety protocols are in place before Basant is celebrated, ensuring the public’s well-being remains the top priority.

While Basant celebrations are off for this year, the government has made it clear that a well-organized and safe celebration will be planned for next February, with full legal oversight.

COURT TO RULE ON PETITION

In the ongoing legal proceedings, the government has requested the court to dismiss the petition for immediate celebrations this year, citing the need for thorough safety measures and planning. The DC Lahore will grant permission once all legal and safety requirements are met.

As anticipation builds for the festival’s return in 2027, the government is focused on ensuring that the iconic event is celebrated safely, responsibly, and with the joy it deserves.

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