Archive · 1 Oct 2025
Assam's Arms Licenses Scheme: Slow Start Amidst Caution
The Assam government started a program to give gun licenses to people in certain areas, but it's going slowly.
So far, many people have applied, especially in Nagaon and Dhubri, which have large Muslim populations.
However, no one has received a license yet.
Officials are being careful, making sure people really need a gun for safety.
They check if applicants have a criminal record and assess if there's a real threat.
Some applicants' wives even asked officials not to give their husbands licenses.
Local leaders have different opinions, some saying it's needed due to safety concerns, while others are surprised by the applications.
Assam government launched a portal for arms licenses for 'vulnerable' areas.
266 applications received as of September 20, 2024.
Most applications are from Nagaon and Dhubri districts.
No applications have been approved yet, with 28 rejections.
Applicants must meet eligibility criteria, including residency and threat perception.
- Who
- Assam government, indigenous citizens
- What
- An arms license scheme for residents in 'vulnerable' areas.
- When
- Applications opened August 14, 2024
- Where
- Assam, specifically 'vulnerable and remote' areas.
- Why
- To enable citizens to protect themselves.
Concerns over the Scheme
Support for the Scheme
Justification for Applications
Concerns over the Scheme
All Assam Minority Students’ Union general secretary expressed surprise about the applications.
Support for the Scheme
Nagaon BJP president suggested a need for protection due to incidents.
- Scheme Launch Date
- August 14
- Total Applications
- 266
- Applications Rejected
- 28
- Applications Accepted
- 0
- Primary Application Areas
- Nagaon and Dhubri districts
- Nagaon Population (Muslim)
- 55.36%
- Processing Time
- 90 days