The Assam government announced on Wednesday that it will begin granting arms licenses to indigenous citizens living in remote and vulnerable parts of the state. The move, introduced under a special scheme, aims to empower local communities to protect themselves amid rising concerns over cross-border infiltration and security threats.
Speaking to media after a state cabinet meeting on May 28, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated, “The indigenous people residing near the Bangladesh border live in constant fear of infiltration and violence. This Cabinet decision ensures that those living in such sensitive areas—where government presence is minimal—can legally acquire arms for self-defence.”
Sarma clarified that the policy will not be limited to international border areas alone but will also cover any area the government identifies as “vulnerable.”
The Chief Minister emphasized that the government will not be purchasing or distributing firearms, but only issuing licenses to eligible individuals who pass background checks and meet legal criteria under the Indian Arms Act.
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma also stated through X, “There were some queries regarding whether the arms license policy would also apply to inter-state border areas such as those shared with Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Nagaland. Let us clarify: Assam has always maintained that inter-state border issues are matters that can and should be resolved through mutual understanding and trust. We do not view these regions as vulnerable in the context of national security threats. Accordingly, the arms license policy will not be applicable to the inter-state border areas of Assam”.
Also read: Assam Clarifies: Arms License Policy Not Applicable in Interstate Border Areas
Eligibility requirements able to get Arms licenses in Assam
Eligibility requirements include being an original inhabitant of the area, a clean criminal record, and clearance through thorough police verification. Final approvals will be granted by the respective Deputy Commissioners.
Sarma reflected on historical grievances, noting that lack of empowerment during the Assam Agitation led to land alienation and displacement. “People have been asking for this since then. I’ve heard villagers say, ‘Give us arms licenses or we will have to abandon our land,’” he said.
The announcement is expected to generate debate among political leaders, civil society groups and law enforcement agencies, especially over the potential implications for arms proliferation. However, the state government has assured that the initiative will be strictly monitored and aimed solely at enhancing community security and resilience.
