The Punjab government has decided not to celebrate the 'basant' festival this year and Punjab Senior Minister Abdul Aleem Khan directed the officials concerned to convey this to the Lahore High Court. The decision was taken at a meeting that was chaired by the Punjab Senior Minister here on Wednesday. In the meeting, it was decided that the court will be apprised about the facts and apprehensions on the festival and based upon this the decision was taken.

However, the government has shown an intention of holding the seasonal event next year. In this connection, the minister directed the concerned officials to start preparations right away, which should include registration of kite sellers and a mechanism to check violators. He added that if required a new law could be legislated to strictly regulate the 'basant'. He pointed out that only four to six months are required for the preparation and added that if the concerned institutions work properly such activities could be held. "This will help in promoting softer image of Pakistan and boost business activities in the region," he added.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2019