Punjab Untangles the String: Kite Ban Replaced by Regulation

PUNJAB UNTANGLES THE STRING:New Ordinance Replaces Ban with Regulation, Grants Sweeping Powers to Police
Ali Imran Chattha Lahore( Nazrana Times)

In a landmark move, the Punjab government has formally repealed the decades-old blanket ban on kite-flying and replaced it with a controlled, regulated regime under the newly promulgated "Punjab Kite-Flying Ordinance 2025."
The ordinance, which took immediate effect, aims to revive the cultural tradition of Basant while attempting to curb the lethal hazards associated with it, primarily metal-coated or chemical (Chinese) strings that have caused countless deaths and injuries in the past.
 

From Ban to License Raj
Gone are the days of a complete prohibition. The new law establishes a comprehensive licensing and registration system.
· For Enthusiasts: Kite-flying will only be allowed with the explicit permission of the District Deputy Commissioner.
· For Businesses: Kite manufacturers and sellers must now mandatorily register with the authorities. Only after registration will they receive a license to legally produce and sell kites.
· For Clubs: All kite-flying associations and clubs are also required to register.
"The 2001 Kite-Flying Ban Ordinance stands completely repealed," a senior law department official confirmed. "However, all actions and cases registered under the previous law have been validated to ensure legal continuity."
Controlled Festivity, Uncontrolled Powers?
While the law opens a window for regulated festivities—allowing the government to specify locations, days, timings, and safe materials for flying—it has drawn immediate scrutiny for the expansive powers granted to law enforcement.
 A critical clause states that a police officer of Sub-Inspector rank or above has been authorized to:
 · Arrest any suspect without a warrant.
 · Enter and search any premises suspected of housing prohibited materials.
 · Seize all contraband, including dangerous strings and kites.
 Furthermore, the government retains the right to bestow these powers on any institution or agency it deems fit, potentially creating multiple enforcement bodies.
 Mixed Reactions
 The move has sparked a polarized debate. Traders and cultural enthusiasts have welcomed the end of the ban. "This is a victory for our heritage," said Riaz Ahmed, a former kite-seller. "We can finally breathe and earn our livelihood legally, provided we follow the rules."
 However, civil society groups and legal experts express deep concern. Advocate Sara Khan questioned, "While regulation is necessary, are such draconian police powers, including non-bailable arrest provisions, proportionate? This could lead to significant harassment."
 Public reaction is cautious, with many citizens recalling the tragic losses caused by metal strings. "I lost a cousin. I just hope the 'safe materials' rule is enforced strictly, not just on paper," said Muhammad Imran, a resident of Lahore.

 The Road Ahead
 The success of the ordinance now hinges on its implementation. The district administrations are tasked with creating a feasible framework for granting permissions, while police face the challenge of enforcing the law without overreach. All eyes will be on the government's next move: notifying the specific rules, designated areas, and the all-important list of "non-hazardous" materials that will determine if the skies of Punjab can once again host a safe Basant.
 

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this article misstated the rank of police officer authorized for arrests. It is a Sub-Inspector or above.