The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs has approved a new law called the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025. The bill aims to place a near-complete ban on kite flying across Punjab, allowing it only on specific days and at approved locations under strict rules.
This decision comes after the Punjab government ended the long ban on the Basant festival, which had been in place for 18 years due to deadly accidents caused by sharp kite strings. Basant is now planned to be celebrated in February next year, but with tighter safety controls.
Under the proposed law, the use of dangerous kite strings made of metal, nylon, glass-coated, or other sharp materials will remain strictly banned. The bill also prohibits the making, transporting, storing, and selling of such harmful strings and related items.
Anyone caught breaking the rules by flying kites illegally could face three to five years in prison or a fine of up to Rs. 2 million. Those involved in producing or selling banned kite materials may receive harsher punishment, including five to seven years in jail and fines reaching Rs. 5 million. All offenses under this law will be non-bailable.
The bill allows deputy commissioners to permit kite flying on approved days and at selected locations, but only with government approval. Sharp or metallic strings will not be allowed under any conditions.
Special rules apply to minors. Children caught violating the law will be dealt with under the Juvenile Justice System Act, with fines placed on parents or guardians. The law also requires registration of kite makers, sellers, and kite-flying groups, gives police strong enforcement powers, and offers rewards for reporting violations.
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