Punjab to Make Illegal Arms Possession a Non-Bailable Offense

The Punjab government has finalized the draft of the “Punjab Arms (Amendment) Act 2024,” which introduces strict measures to combat illegal arms possession.

For the first time in the province’s history, possessing illegal weapons will be classified as a non-bailable offense. The proposed bill, set to be presented for cabinet approval, includes harsher punishments and significant fines.

Under the amendments, carrying or owning unlicensed weapons, including non-prohibited firearms like pistols, will be punishable by three to five years in prison and a minimum fine of Rs. 1 million. Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional six months of imprisonment.

Possessing prohibited weapons such as Kalashnikovs will carry even stricter penalties, with sentences ranging from four to seven years and a minimum fine of Rs. 2 million. Exhibiting or carrying unlicensed weapons will also attract sentences of three to seven years and a fine of at least Rs. 2 million.

Additionally, the act proposes making the manufacturing or repairing of arms and running shooting clubs without a license a non-bailable offense, punishable by five to seven years in prison and a minimum fine of Rs. 3 million.