Punjab chief minister says she had decided to withdraw all Basant activities scheduled for the day in light of the tragic incident
LAHORE: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-Feb 6th, 2026) Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Friday announced the cancellation of all Basant-related programmes across the province following a deadly suicide bombing at an imambargah in Islamabad.
In a message shared on X, the chief minister said she had decided to withdraw all Basant activities scheduled for the day in light of the tragic incident. She also confirmed that the mega Basant show planned at Liberty Square, Lahore, would not be held.
CM Maryam stressed the need for national unity against extremist elements and their supporters, saying the country must show zero tolerance towards them and stand firmly alongside the armed forces to safeguard Pakistan’s security.
Earlier, the Punjab government had announced province-wide Basant celebrations from February 6 to 8, with the main event scheduled for February 7 at Liberty Chowk, Lahore. Citizens from across Punjab, including Lahore, had been invited to take part in the festivities.
Despite the official cancellation, Basant celebrations had already begun in Lahore late Wednesday night, with kite-flying reported in various localities. However, the celebrations turned tragic as at least one person lost their life and several others sustained injuries due to hazardous kite strings, despite claims by the administration of ensuring safety measures.
Following the Islamabad suicide attack, in which dozens of worshippers were killed and many injured during Friday prayers, security has been significantly tightened in the provincial capital. Police and other law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert, with increased monitoring of sensitive locations, entry and exit points, markets, and bazaars.
Authorities said surveillance has been intensified across the city, while counter-terrorism operations have also been stepped up to prevent any untoward incident. Citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity or individuals to the police.
Meanwhile, Basant celebrations are continuing on a limited scale, with many residents opting to fly kites from the rooftops of their homes, considering them safer compared to crowded public places amid prevailing security concerns.
