Will Punjab Close Schools for 10 Days for Basant?
As of January 28, 2026, the Punjab Government and the School Education Department have formally denied issuing any notification announcing school holidays from February 1 to February 10.
The clarification comes after a fake notification went viral on social media, causing confusion among parents, teachers, and students across Punjab.
The Reality Behind the “10-Day Holiday” Claim
The viral document falsely claimed that:
- Schools would remain closed for ten days
- School rooftops would be auctioned for kite-flying during Basant
Both claims are entirely false.
Official Position
- Rana Sikandar Hayat, Punjab’s Education Minister, has publicly confirmed that no such holidays were approved.
- The School Education Department has reiterated that no notification exists regarding extended closures.
Only One Confirmed Holiday
- The only approved closure is a local holiday in Lahore on Friday, February 6, 2026.
- This holiday is limited only to Lahore and is meant to facilitate public participation and safety during Basant festivities.
Schools to Remain Open
- Outside of February 6 in Lahore, all public and private schools across Punjab will operate as normal.
- There is no province-wide holiday and no multi-day school closure.
Strict Ban on Kite-Flying in Schools
- The government has completely banned kite-flying on school rooftops.
- No auctions, permissions, or exceptions will be allowed due to student safety and infrastructure risks.
Basant 2026 in Lahore: What Is Actually Approved
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After an 18-year ban, Basant is officially returning to Lahore, but under strict controls.
Dates
- February 6 to February 8, 2026
Location Limits
- Kite-flying is allowed only within Lahore.
- It remains strictly banned in all other districts of Punjab.
Basant 2026 Regulations at a Glance
| Regulation Area | Official Rule |
|---|---|
| Zoning | City divided into Red (restricted), Yellow (moderate), and Green (safe) zones |
| Strings | Only cotton thread allowed |
| Banned Materials | Chemical, metallic, nylon, and glass-coated strings strictly prohibited |
| Music Restrictions | 132 songs with vulgar or suggestive lyrics banned |
| Motorbike Safety | Bikers must install safety wires to prevent string-related injuries |
| School Premises | Kite-flying on school rooftops completely prohibited |
Zero Tolerance Warning: Section 144 in Force
Authorities have issued a strong warning regarding misuse of Basant festivities.
- Any individual using kites with political or religious imagery, especially references to the number 804, will face immediate arrest.
- Section 144 will be strictly enforced.
- Law enforcement agencies have been directed to act without warning against violators.
Officials say these measures are essential to prevent disorder, politicization, and safety hazards during the festival.
Why the Fake Notification Spread
According to officials, the misinformation gained traction because:
- It appeared formatted like an official government circular
- It exploited public excitement around Basant’s return
- It circulated rapidly on WhatsApp and Facebook groups
The Punjab government has urged citizens to verify information only through official channels and avoid forwarding unconfirmed notices.
Bottom Line
- ❌ No 10-day school holiday from February 1 to February 10
- ✅ Only one local holiday: February 6, 2026 (Lahore only)
- ❌ No kite-flying on school rooftops
- ✅ Basant allowed only in Lahore, under tight security and safety rules
Parents and students are advised to follow official notifications only and ignore viral claims that do not originate from the School Education Department or the Punjab government.
