The Punjab governments decision to keep the ban on Basant has been met with both bouquets and brickbats. On the one hand, people are lamenting the fact that something which can be called a democratic sport accessible to all classes and something that provides recreation to the embattled masses has been taken away from them. On the other, people say that it leads to a loss in life and thus, the ban is a step to be lauded.
There is merit to both sides of the arguments. While flying kites is indeed a sport loved and (previously) enjoyed by many, it should only be allowed to continue if the practice of illegal chemical-infused strings cannot be contained. But I am sure containing these practices is not a difficult task and the government should take that option rather than banning it altogether. The governmentshould see that this can be a good source for generating revenue and local economies associated with the issue.
Basant is a festival that has local flavour. The governemnt should try to promote it.
AMIR HASAN
Lahore
