Punjab CM for review of all arms licences

In a move aimed at checking gun culture and to maintain law and order in the state, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann yesterday ordered a review of all arms licences.

On the directions of the chief minister, the principal secretary, Home has issued a detailed letter to the director-general of police, police commissioners, district magistrates and senior superintendents of police asking them to review all the existing arm licences.

It has also been directed that licences issued to anti-social elements must be cancelled immediately.

It has also been ordered that no new licence should be issued generally in the coming three months adding the licence should be issued only where it is genuinely required. Even in that case also the issuing authority must be satisfied by the rationale given by the applicant.

A blanket ban on public display of arms and ammunition has also been imposed. This ban will also be applicable on social media.

Similarly, it has been directed that a complete ban should be imposed on songs eulogising gun culture.

A ban will also be imposed on carrying and display of weapons in public gatherings, religious places, weddings and parties.