Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced that the state government will begin issuing arms licences to native residents living in “vulnerable and remote” areas.
Speaking at a press conference in Guwahati, the chief minister said the decision was approved during a recent state cabinet meeting following growing demands from local populations in certain districts.
“Assam is a unique and sensitive state. In some regions, indigenous Assamese communities have expressed concerns about their safety. Many have been requesting arms licences for quite some time,” Sarma stated.
He clarified that the licences will only be granted to “original inhabitants” from indigenous communities who reside in areas identified as vulnerable.
The government, he added, would adopt a lenient approach in processing applications from eligible individuals.
ALSO READ: Assam Governor takes stock of state’s flood readiness ahead of monsoon
Among the districts highlighted by the chief minister were Dhubri, Morigaon, Barpeta, Nagaon, and South Salmara-Mankachar — regions where indigenous Assamese reportedly constitute a minority.
“In these areas, our communities often feel outnumbered and insecure. This measure is intended to empower them and instill confidence,” Sarma said.
The state government is expected to release detailed guidelines shortly, outlining the eligibility criteria, verification process, and oversight mechanisms for issuing these licences.
