The Punjab Cabinet Committee has approved a comprehensive ban on all activities related to kite flying and the manufacturing of dangerous twines and strings.
This decision was taken during a meeting of the Punjab Cabinet Committee on Law and Privatisation, chaired by Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rahman. Law Minister Sohaib Bharath was in attendance, while Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique joined via video link.
The committee approved key amendments to the Punjab Arms Ordinance 1965 and the Prohibition of Kite Flying Ordinance 2001, resulting in a complete ban on kite flying and the production of harmful kite strings.
The preparation and sale of kite strings, including those made from metal wires and other hazardous materials, are now strictly prohibited. Violators will face severe penalties, including a minimum three-year imprisonment for kite flying and at least five years imprisonment, or a substantial fine, for manufacturing and distributing such dangerous materials.
Additionally, the committee proposed that fines be imposed on the parents of children found violating the kite flying ban. The amendments also extend to the unauthorized sale, repair, manufacturing, and sports shooting of firearms without a license.
Further amendments were proposed to the Punjab Vagrancy Ordinance 1958 and the Probation of Offenders Ordinance 1960, aiming to curb illegal activities across the province. “No concessions should be given to those who risk people’s lives in the name of entertainment,” emphasized Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rahman.
These new regulations underscore the government’s commitment to public safety and legal enforcement, with officials determined to ensure that entertainment does not come at the cost of human lives.
