In a significant development, the interim government in Punjab has taken the decision to allow individuals and businesses to apply for arms licenses through an online application process, as per the newly established Punjab Arms Rules 2023.
This move grants the residents of Pakistan’s most populous region the opportunity to obtain arms licenses for personal, institutional, security company, and business purposes, as long as the weapons in question are non-prohibited bore firearms.
However, it’s worth noting that this change is accompanied by a substantial increase in arms license fees. The government has raised the fee from Rs20,000 to Rs50,000, marking a significant surge of approximately 150 percent.
The decision to raise the arms license fees received approval from the Law and Parliamentary Affairs Department.
Under the new rules, arms licenses may be issued to individuals for personal protection or sports-related purposes, provided that the applicants meet certain eligibility criteria. These requirements include:
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Pakistan with a valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
- The applicant should possess a Punjab domicile.
- The individual must be at least 20 years of age.
- The applicant should be listed as an active taxpayer with no prior criminal record.
This move represents a shift in the arms license application process in Punjab, offering greater convenience through online applications, albeit with a higher fee structure. It aims to ensure that those obtaining arms licenses meet specific eligibility criteria, contributing to the overall safety and security of the region.
