The Punjab govt has indicated it may extend the Basant festival across the province if this year’s celebrations in Lahore prove successful. The decision will strictly follow approved standard operating procedures (SOPs), officials said.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari spoke on Samaa TV’s program Red Line with Talat. She emphasized that public happiness should not be hindered by political unrest. She criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for opposing festivities, questioning why the party appeared against public enjoyment.
Azma Bokhari said social media campaigns targeted Lahorites participating in the festival. She noted that people who rarely left their homes were now seen flying kites on rooftops. Meanwhile, political calls outside Adiala Jail failed to attract crowds. She said the public preferred peace and leisure over agitation and tension.
The minister added that PTI activists faced public rejection when attempting to close shops. Traders reportedly tore up PTI pamphlets, showing that business priorities outweighed political messages. She suggested that the outcome of recent PTI appeals would mirror previous failures.
Azma Bokhari alleged that some political figures were disturbed by positive social developments. She specifically mentioned PTI leader Azhar Siddique, who filed a petition against Basant but was later seen buying kites at Mochi Gate. Video evidence of the incident was reportedly available.
Highlighting the festival’s economic impact, the minister said kites and strings worth over Rs1.2 billion were sold. She added that business activity rose across 12 to 15 sectors. The festival, banned for years due to past safety concerns, has now seen a resurgence of public interest, including from Generation Z.
The Punjab govt assured that safety measures would remain strict. Rooftop surveillance using drones will monitor kite-flying activity. Authorities are aware of kite manufacturing sources and will ensure the event proceeds without risks.
Azma Bokhari concluded by stressing the need for a fresh social environment. She said Basant had exceeded public expectations, offering joy and economic benefits while maintaining safety and order.
In other news read more about Basant Lights Up Lahore Today as Kite Flying Returns After Two Decades
The Punjab govt’s cautious optimism suggests that if Lahore’s Basant proves a success, the festival could become a province-wide celebration in future years.
