Punjab imposes harsher penalties on kite flying, kite making and distribution

New regulations also criminalise production, use and distribution of metallic string, wire, and sharp-coated string

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The Punjab government has tightened its crackdown on kite flying, declaring kite making, flying, and distribution as non-bailable offences.

The decision comes with amendments to the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Act 2007, which now imposes stricter penalties.

The new regulations also criminalise the production, use, and distribution of metallic string, wire, and sharp-coated string, which are often used in kite flying.

According to the amendments, individuals caught flying kites could face 3 to 5 years in prison or a fine of up to Rs 2 million, or both.

Failure to pay the fine could result in an additional year of imprisonment.

Kite makers and transporters could face even harsher penalties, with 5 to 7 years in prison or a fine of up to Rs 5 million, or both.

Failure to pay this fine could lead to an additional 2 years of imprisonment.

The law also outlines specific penalties for minors caught kite flying.

On the first offence, they will receive a warning; on the second, a fine of Rs 50,000; and on the third, a fine of Rs 100,000.

If the child is unable to pay, the fine will be collected from their parents or guardians.

A fourth offence will result in punishment under the Juvenile Justice System Act 2018, which could include imprisonment.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department stated that these measures are crucial to preventing this dangerous practice, which poses a serious threat to human lives.

The increased penalties are expected to deter individuals from participating in this deadly activity.