The Lahore High Court (LHC) has fixed a petition challenging the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 for hearing, bringing renewed legal scrutiny to the controversial law regulating kite flying in Punjab.

According to the Registrar’s Office, the case has been included in the cause list and is scheduled to be heard on January 5. The petition questions the legality and constitutional validity of the ordinance, which was recently introduced to address safety concerns linked to kite flying.

The court has already directed the petitioner’s counsel to submit a reply to the response filed in the case, indicating that the matter has entered a substantive phase of proceedings.

The Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 was enacted with the stated aim of preventing injuries, fatalities, and damage to property caused by dangerous kite strings, particularly metal and chemical-coated strings. However, critics argue that the ordinance imposes excessive restrictions and penalties, potentially infringing on cultural traditions and fundamental rights.

The upcoming hearing is expected to focus on whether the ordinance aligns with constitutional guarantees, including the right to lawful recreation, proportionality of punishments, and the scope of the government’s regulatory authority.

Legal experts say the LHC’s decision could have wide-ranging implications, as kite flying has long been a culturally significant activity in Punjab, especially during festivals such as Basant. A ruling on this petition may determine whether the ordinance remains in force, is amended, or faces suspension.

The January 5 hearing will be closely watched by civil society groups, kite flying associations, and government authorities, as it may shape future policy on public safety versus cultural practices in the province.