Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday claimed the Punjab government is working on a plan to mark a “safe” Basant in Lahore next year.
Earlier this year, the Punjab government enacted through legislation a total ban on kite-flying across the province, citing the use of metallic wire, nylon cords and other threads as being injurious to health. The decision had drawn the ire of local residents and the Kite Association, which had urged the government to not ban the sport outright.
Speaking with media in London, Dar confirmed media reports of the Punjab government’s plans for February 2026. Those reports had suggested Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had formed a high-level committee to devise a strategy for the event. Among the proposals under consideration of the committee is restricting the festival to the Walled City. Additionally, authorities are considering the impact of a potential ban on motorcycles for the two days of the event to prevent any accidents and ensure safety.
In his media interaction, Dar—who is also the foreign minister—rejected the possibility of the government inking any “deal” with any forces that are working against the national interest. He also confirmed that Pakistan has raised the issue of the murder of eight Pakistanis in Iran, calling on Tehran to investigate the matter and provide answers to Islamabad.