The Punjab government has decided to cancel the central official Basant celebration, which was scheduled to take place on February 6 at the Diwan-e-Aam of Lahore Fort. The event was expected to host senior government officials and foreign diplomats.
Reason Behind the Decision
According to official sources, the decision was taken in view of the law and order situation and to ensure strict implementation of safety SOPs. Authorities felt that organizing a large-scale public event could create challenges in effective monitoring and enforcement.
Security and Monitoring Arrangements
To oversee Basant-related activities across Lahore:
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Camp offices will be set up at the Safe City Headquarters and DC Office
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These offices will monitor security arrangements and administrative coordination during the festival
Government’s Official Position
Punjab Chief Minister’s Special Assistant for Information, Azma Bukhari, clarified that there was no finalized plan for an official government-led Basant event. She emphasized that the permission to celebrate Basant has been granted to the public only, while the government’s role is limited to ensuring compliance with SOPs.
She added that Basant will be celebrated on rooftops across the city, and authorities will focus on maintaining safety rather than hosting official festivities.
Conclusion
While the central government ceremony has been cancelled, Basant celebrations will continue at the public level. The Punjab government’s priority remains public safety, security, and strict SOP enforcement during the festival.
