Guwahati, Aug 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, officially inaugurated an online portal dedicated to Arms License Services at Lok Sewa Bhawan. He highlighted that while the state will streamline the licensing procedure, it will not dispense arms.

This initiative aims to enhance the sense of security for vulnerable groups, especially indigenous communities that confront risks stemming from ethnic or communal conflicts and shifts in demographics.

“This scheme is free from political and religious bias. It is anchored in the constitutional principles of freedom and responsibility,” stated CM Sarma, emphasizing that the purpose is to ensure self-defense and community safety in sensitive regions without breaching the law.

The Chief Minister noted that the authority to issue arms licenses will lie with Deputy Commissioners, District Commissioners, and Superintendents of Police, who are responsible for maintaining transparency and impartiality.

“Our government is committed to responsibility. The issuance of licenses will be managed at the district level with utmost accountability. In cases of misuse, the onus will be on these officials, not on the Chief Minister or senior police personnel,” CM Sarma explained.

He further mentioned that these officials, with extensive administrative and field experience, are expected to evaluate applications fairly, devoid of political pressures.

The newly introduced online system aims to simplify the application and approval procedures, minimizing bureaucratic hindrances and enhancing record-keeping.

Authorities believe it will also bolster monitoring, aiding in the identification and management of potential misuse of arms licenses.

CM Sarma reiterated that this initiative is preventive rather than provocative.

“This is about securing the right to self-defense for those who genuinely require it, particularly in areas where vulnerabilities are pronounced,” he remarked.

The launch occurs amidst intensified discussions regarding security issues in specific districts of Assam, where communities have expressed heightened worries about demographic and social transitions.

The government anticipates that the portal will deliver a transparent and efficient framework for law-abiding citizens seeking lawful self-protection while keeping political dynamics out of the licensing process.