LHC expands kite-flying case, adds WCLA DG

Petitioner argues new ordinance endangers public safety

LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday directed that the Director General of the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) be made a necessary respondent in a petition challenging the Kite-Flying Ordinance 2025.

Justice Muhammad Awais Khalid, while hearing the case, noted that proposals for reviving Basant had originally been initiated by the WCLA chief. "Fundamentally, the DG Walled City must be made a respondent," the judge remarked.

The petitioner's counsel argued that the matter involves urgent concerns of public safety and should be adjudicated without delay.

The court expressed displeasure over the late arrival of the government's lawyer, stressing that all parties must be fully prepared when dealing with a matter that poses risks to human life.

The petitioner's lawyer contended that the government is endangering citizens by attempting to reintroduce kite-flying through the new ordinance.

He submitted that despite earlier legislation in 2001 and 2024, fatal incidents caused by metal and chemically coated kite strings have persisted.

He further argued that the newly introduced regulatory framework runs contrary to public interest and could lead to additional casualties. Siddique urged the court to summon complete data on past deaths, FIRs and enforcement actions related to kite-flying.

"The government must be held responsible for any loss of life resulting from the revival of kite-flying," he maintained, requesting that the amended ordinance be struck down.

Justice Khalid advised the petitioner to first include all relevant authorities as respondents before advancing arguments. The hearing was adjourned until December 10.