Punjab Government Finalizes Comprehensive Policy to Combat Illegal Weapons
In response to the escalating use of illegal firearms in criminal activities throughout Punjab, the provincial government has completed a detailed policy framework designed to address this critical issue and enhance public safety. The policy, developed by the Punjab Home Department, is slated for presentation to the provincial cabinet for formal approval in the upcoming weeks.
Key Components of the Proposed Policy
License Re-verification and Digital Registry: A cornerstone of the policy involves the comprehensive re-verification of all weapons licenses across Punjab. Licenses held by individuals under suspicion may be revoked. Furthermore, the establishment of a digital weapons registry is planned to significantly improve monitoring capabilities and ensure greater transparency in firearm management.
Amnesty Scheme and Crackdown: The government is contemplating a time-bound amnesty program to encourage individuals in illegal possession of weapons to surrender them voluntarily. This initiative is intended to precede a rigorous, province-wide crackdown. Licenses not renewed within the specified timeframe will face cancellation.
Enhanced Enforcement Measures: Authorities are in the process of finalizing designated surrender points and robust record-keeping procedures. Any illegal license associated with criminal activity will be met with stringent legal consequences. Additionally, the policy proposes a complete prohibition on aerial firing during weddings, public gatherings, and political events, with immediate arrests for any violations.
Public and Expert Reactions
While the policy measures are still in their preliminary stages, public concern is already palpable. A Lahore resident, who requested anonymity, appealed to the government to refrain from an immediate crackdown and instead allow adequate time and support for compliance.
Conversely, experts have expressed skepticism regarding the timeliness of these efforts. Defense analyst Brigadier (R) Ghazanfar Askari acknowledged the policy as a positive step but emphasized that action should have been initiated much earlier. He highlighted historical issues, stating, "Illegal weapons were historically smuggled from Afghanistan into Pakistan through organized networks. Weak oversight allowed weapons to flood Punjab. Furthermore, in the past, weapons licenses were often issued on political grounds." Askari urged the government to expedite record compilation and secure cabinet approval to ensure prompt implementation.
Suspension of Manual License Computerization
In a related development, the Punjab government has suspended the verification and computerization process for old manual weapons licenses. Holders of manual licenses, including citizens, institutions, and security companies, were previously given a final opportunity until March 2025 to convert them to computerized versions. However, after nearly ten months, this revalidation process has now been halted.
The Punjab Home Department disclosed that there are currently one million NADRA-verified weapons licenses in the province, all of which are under review. Manual, copy-based licenses have been permanently abolished and are no longer eligible for computerization. A fresh verification of licenses issued by Deputy Commissioner (DC) offices is currently in progress.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Plans
Official sources reported that in recent months, coordinated operations involving police, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and district administrations have been conducted across Punjab. These joint search-and-combing operations have resulted in the recovery of substantial quantities of unlicensed weapons and the registration of numerous cases. Officials describe these actions as the practical commencement of a zero-tolerance policy against illegal arms.
The proposed policy also identifies key factors contributing to the proliferation of illegal weapons, including tribal traditions, inherited firearms, and inter-provincial smuggling. Special attention will be directed towards districts bordering Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with plans for strengthened check posts and enhanced surveillance measures.
A spokesperson from the Home Department confirmed that reports have been requested regarding the surrender of illegal weapons and progress under the de-weaponization campaign. Commissioners and deputy commissioners throughout Punjab have been instructed to submit their findings by November 13.
The computerization of manual weapons licenses was initially launched in 2016, with December 31, 2020, set as the final deadline. Licenses not computerized by that date were cancelled, yet the circulation of illegal weapons persists, underscoring the urgency of the new policy measures.
