In a key move to tighten firearm regulation and reinforce public safety, the District Administration of Jammu has issued strict directions for enforcement of the Arms Act, mandating that no individual shall possess more than two firearms.
The directive, issued by District Magistrate Rakesh Minhas, invokes Section 3(2) of the Arms Act, 1959, as amended by the Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019. It follows a review of official records which revealed that several licensed arms holders in the district are in possession of firearms beyond the legally permitted limit.
In terms of steps, the decision enfolds primarily the mandatory verification and compliance. As per the notice, all license holders found to be in possession of more than two firearms — including those listed in the annexure attached to the notice — have been directed to appear before the Judicial Section of the Office of the District Magistrate, Jammu, within 10 days of issuance of the order. The appearance is meant for verification and confirmation of compliance with the statutory provisions of the Arms Act.
The new order essentially thrust on deposit of excess weapons has been ordered. License holders exceeding the prescribed limit have been instructed to deposit the surplus firearms strictly in accordance with Section 3(3) of the Arms Act and the Arms Rules, 2016. The administration has made it clear that proper receipts must be obtained and compliance must be formally reported to the Licensing Authority within the stipulated period.
In terms of warning of legal action,the notice cautions that failure to comply with the directions will invite strict legal action, including proceedings under Section 17 of the Arms Act, 1959, which provides for suspension or cancellation of arms licences, in addition to other legal consequences.Officials said the exercise is aimed at ensuring uniform enforcement of firearm laws and preventing misuse of licensed weapons. The administration has urged all arms license holders to cooperate fully and regularize their status without delay.
The move is being viewed as part of a broader push by the district administration to strengthen law and order and ensure strict compliance with statutory norms.
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