Has the Assam Cabinet Approved Arms Licences for Citizens in Border Areas?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal decision, the Assam Cabinet has approved arms licences for residents in border areas, aiming to empower communities against unlawful threats. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasizes security without militarization, promising guidelines to prevent misuse. The move reflects a significant shift in Assam's internal security strategy. What does this mean for local communities?
Key Takeaways
- Arms licences approved for residents in vulnerable border areas.
- Decision aims to enhance self-defence capabilities.
- Guidelines will be issued to prevent misuse.
- Emphasis on empowering indigenous communities.
- Significant shift in Assam’s internal security approach.
Guwahati, May 28 (NationPress) In a strategic effort to enhance self-defence capabilities in Assam’s remote and sensitive regions, the state Cabinet has sanctioned the issuance of arms licences to qualified residents in vulnerable and border areas.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed this decision on Wednesday, highlighting Assam’s distinct security challenges and geographical vulnerabilities.
"Assam is a complex and sensitive state. We have resolved to issue arms licences to eligible individuals residing in remote, vulnerable, and border regions. We will encourage original inhabitants and indigenous Indian citizens to apply under the provisions of the Arms Act," he stated.
This initiative is part of the government’s wider strategy to empower indigenous communities to defend themselves against unlawful threats in areas where immediate access to law enforcement may be constrained.
Sarma stressed that the aim is not to militarise the civilian population but to foster a sense of security among communities that frequently encounter recurrent threats.
The state government will soon release comprehensive guidelines detailing the application process, eligibility criteria, and verification measures to ensure the system is not exploited. All applications will undergo scrutiny under the current provisions of the Arms Act.
This decision marks a significant shift in Assam’s internal security approach and reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding its borderland populations from destabilising influences.
In the meantime, Sarma intensified his criticism of Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, making a series of serious allegations regarding Gogoi’s purported ties with Pakistan’s establishment and vowing to disclose "damning" evidence on September 10.
Speaking to reporters, Sarma asserted that what Gogoi has acknowledged regarding his 2013 visit to Pakistan is "only 10 percent" of the complete story.
"What I will reveal on September 10 will make Rahul Gandhi regret why he appointed such a person to a leadership position," Sarma remarked, referring to Gogoi’s role as Congress president in Assam.
"There are serious national security implications. We will take action on September 10."
Previously, Gaurav Gogoi addressed the controversy surrounding his 2013 visit to Pakistan and his wife’s professional background.
Point of View
The decision by Assam's Cabinet signifies a proactive approach to internal security, especially in sensitive border areas. While the intent is to empower local populations, it is crucial to ensure that such measures do not lead to unintended consequences, such as increased violence or misuse of arms. The government must exercise caution and maintain transparency in the application process to uphold public trust.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will be eligible to apply for arms licences in Assam?
Eligible applicants include original inhabitants and indigenous Indian citizens residing in remote and vulnerable border areas.
What is the purpose of issuing arms licences in Assam?
The initiative is aimed at enhancing self-defence capabilities and empowering communities against unlawful threats in regions with limited law enforcement access.
How will the government ensure the arms licence system is not misused?
The state government will issue detailed guidelines regarding the application process, eligibility criteria, and verification procedures to prevent misuse.
When will further details about the arms licence issuance be released?
The state government is expected to release comprehensive guidelines soon, providing clarity on the application process.
What are the broader implications of this decision for Assam's security?
This decision reflects a significant shift in Assam's internal security strategy, aiming to protect borderland populations from destabilising elements.
