Guwahati (Assam), 14 August (HS): A new digital portal for arms licence applications has been launched in Assam, enabling indigenous residents of “sensitive areas” to apply online. The initiative was unveiled by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday, just a day before Independence Day.

According to Sarma, the move is designed to empower responsible citizens to contribute to peacekeeping and help maintain law and order. The process will involve stringent scrutiny and multiple levels of verification before any licence is granted.

Applicants will need to meet specific criteria, including a clean criminal record, sound mental health and completion of arms training. They must also present valid reasons for establishing their vulnerability.

Emphasising the scope of the scheme, Sarma clarified that the government will not provide weapons; it will only issue licences in accordance with the Indian Arms Act.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash