The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday instructed all relevant authorities to submit detailed reports on the measures taken in response to several petitions challenging the permission granted for celebrating Basant.
Presiding over the session, Justice Malik Muhammad Owais Khalid reviewed petitions filed by the Judicial Activism Panel and others.
During the hearing, the Director General of the Directorate General Public Relations (DGPR) informed the court that awareness campaigns were being conducted through print and electronic media to inform the public about designated areas where Basant celebrations are allowed. The court instructed authorities to consult with the Deputy Commissioner Lahore on this matter.
The Deputy Commissioner Lahore assured the court that the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) had made comprehensive arrangements to ensure safety. Additionally, the SSP Operations reported that kite flying was prohibited prior to Basant, with more than 100 cases registered for breaches as of last night.
In response to a court inquiry, the SSP Operations noted that Health Department staff had also been stationed at safety camps.
Representing the Kite Manufacturing Association, Khalid Zafar contended that Basant is a cultural festival and should not be politicized, further asserting that no dangerous materials are used in kite manufacturing.
The court has adjourned further hearings on the petitions until February 2.
