The Punjab Assembly approves the 2025 Kite-Flying Regulation Bill.

By an overwhelming vote, the Punjab Assembly passed the “Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025,” which establishes stringent new regulations and sanctions meant to safeguard property and human life. The Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Ordinance 2001 is repealed by the new law.

The bill’s provisions prohibit the use, production, storage, and distribution of metal wire, nylon string, and kite string that is coated with chemicals or lined with glass (manjha).

The bill proposes severe penalties for infractions. Illegally producing, storing, or selling kites, as well as flying them without authorization, can result in fines of up to Rs. 2 million, three to five years in prison, or both. A punishment of up to Rs. 5 million or five to seven years in prison could be imposed on anyone who produce or sell prohibited kite string.

Violations involving minors are likewise covered by the statute. The Juvenile Justice System Act of 2018 will be used if youngsters are found to be breaking the regulations. Authorities have the right to collect unpaid fines from parents or legal guardians.

It will be necessary to register the production and sale of approved kites and cotton string. Selling kites or other approved materials without registering could result in a fine or imprisonment of one to five years. Associations that fly kites will also need to register, and deputy commissioners will have the authority to revoke registrations for infractions. At the magistrate, deputy commissioner, and commissioner levels, an appeals procedure has been set up.

Law violations are now punishable by arrest and are not susceptible to bail. Police will have the authority to search people, seize equipment, and make arrests without a warrant. The government may grant these powers to other departments, but only officials with the rank of sub-inspector or higher will be permitted to conduct such activities.

Subject to certain restrictions, deputy commissioners will have the power to permit kite flying on particular days and at specified areas. Motorcycle safety precautions will be required during such authorized events.

The measure contains a clause rewarding anyone who report infractions with up to Rs. 5,000.