Senior minister says no official Basant show was finalized, celebrations allowed under SOPs
Lahore, Pakistan | Web Desk: The Punjab government has strongly denied reports claiming the cancellation of Basant-related events, including a much-publicized mega show planned at Lahore’s historic Shahi Qila.
Provincial Senior Minister Azma Bukhari clarified that no Basant event has been canceled, stressing that the government had not finalized any official Basant celebrations at the state level.
She stated that permission for Basant was granted solely to the public, allowing citizens to celebrate the traditional kite-flying festival on their rooftops, while the government’s role is limited to ensuring strict implementation of safety SOPs.
“Every rooftop will celebrate Basant,” Bokhari said, adding that the government’s priority is public safety and compliance with regulations.
Earlier reports had suggested that a mega Basant show scheduled for February 6 at Shahi Qila Lahore had been called off. The event was expected to host local and international guests. Reports also claimed that another Basant gathering planned for February 7 at Haveli Asif Jah in the Walled City had been canceled.
However, the Punjab government has now categorically rejected these claims, calling them misleading and inaccurate.
