HC cracks down on unchecked arms display in Punjab, seeks detailed reports on issuance of licenses
PTC Web Desk: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken a stern stance regarding the open display of weapons in Punjab, likening their use to "toys" and emphasising the urgent need for regulation. The court's remarks come in light of the ongoing controversy surrounding the issuance and oversight of arms licenses in the region.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court highlighted concerns over the apparent misuse of arms licenses, particularly in instances where firearms are utilised akin to toys. It underscored the imperative for stringent regulation and oversight to curb such practices.
_691a633966f479ba47e606e6c985bfc1_1280X720.webp)
The court directed the Deputy Commissioners of all districts in Punjab to furnish detailed reports on the issuance of arms licenses by next Friday. The court also mandated disclosure of information regarding the number of licenses issued in each district and the frequency of their review.
The directive follows scrutiny over the issuance of a staggering 34,768 arms licenses in Punjab between January 2019 and December 2023. Of these, 32,303 were reportedly issued for self-defense, 77 for crop protection, 1,536 for business security, 95 due to threats from gangsters or antisocial elements, and 727 for other reasons.
The court's intervention comes in response to concerns raised regarding the lack of periodic review or scrutiny of these licenses. It deemed the absence of such oversight a direct violation of arms regulations, prompting the court to demand accountability from the government.
- PTC NEWS
