Is the Assam Government's New Arms Licence Policy a Step Back into Gun Culture?
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Synopsis
Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah has raised alarm over the Assam government's new arms licence policy, suggesting it may lead to a resurgence of gun culture. His warnings are rooted in personal experiences from a turbulent historical backdrop, emphasizing the need for peace over fear.
Key Takeaways
- Bhupen Kumar Borah criticizes the new arms licence policy.
- The policy aims to enhance self-defence in vulnerable regions.
- Concerns about reviving gun culture are prominent.
- Historical context highlights the need for peace.
- Critique of governance style and societal division.
Guwahati, May 29 (NationPress) Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah vehemently criticized the Assam cabinet's recent decision to implement a state-specific arms licence policy, expressing concerns that this action may rekindle a culture of fear akin to the region's tumultuous past.
During a press conference, the former president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) painted a bleak scenario, sharing personal anecdotes from his tenure as a Youth Congress leader.
"Once, the echo of a single gunshot would keep entire communities awake at night," he remarked.
Borah also shared his experiences regarding security during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when he received a bulletproof vehicle, jacket, and helmet from the Assam Police.
"Our collective dream was to escape the grip of gun culture that once held sway in our state. Assam has progressed significantly — we cannot afford to slide back," he emphasized.
Questioning the legality of the cabinet's decision, Borah highlighted that arms licences are governed by Central laws. “I also own a licensed firearm, but only after a legitimate threat to my life was evaluated and confirmed through due process,” he clarified.
Directly targeting Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Borah accused him of being influenced by the gun culture prevalent in the United States.
“This is not the America characterized by mass shootings and the glorification of firearms,” he warned.
“We do not wish for a society where firearms are as common as toys, even in the hands of children," he stated.
Borah concluded his remarks by criticizing the Chief Minister for fueling societal divisions through inflammatory policies. “This is not governance — it’s divisive politics that endangers the hard-won peace of Assam,” he stated, urging the government to reconsider this contentious decision.
In an effort to enhance self-defence capabilities in Assam's remote and sensitive regions, the state cabinet has authorized the issuance of arms licences to qualified residents in vulnerable and border areas.
Chief Minister Sarma announced this decision on Wednesday, citing the unique security challenges and geographical vulnerabilities faced by Assam.
"Assam is a challenging and sensitive state," CM Sarma remarked.
"We have resolved to issue arms licences to qualified individuals residing in remote, vulnerable, and border areas. We will motivate original inhabitants and indigenous Indian citizens to apply under the provisions of the Arms Act."
Point of View
It's crucial to approach the Assam government's new policy with a balanced perspective. While the need for security in vulnerable areas is valid, the implications of increased arms circulation must be examined carefully. The community’s peace and safety should be prioritized over policies that could potentially exacerbate societal tensions.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new arms licence policy in Assam?
The Assam cabinet has approved a state-specific arms licence policy aimed at issuing licences to eligible residents in vulnerable and border areas to enhance self-defence.
Who criticized the arms licence policy?
Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah has sharply criticized the policy, warning it may revive a culture of fear.
What are the concerns regarding this policy?
Borah expressed concerns that the policy could lead to an increase in gun violence and a return to a gun culture reminiscent of Assam's troubled past.
What did the Chief Minister say about the policy?
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the policy is necessary due to Assam's unique security challenges and geographical vulnerabilities.
What historical context did Borah provide?
Borah recalled a time when the sound of gunshots instilled fear in communities, emphasizing the need to avoid a return to such a situation.
