The Punjab government has moved to introduce sweeping changes to the Punjab Arms Ordinance, 1965. For the first time, the government will allow target practice with firearms at licensed gun clubs. These clubs, however, will require formal licensing, and operating without one will result in severe penalties, including five to seven years in prison and fines of up to Rs. 3 million.
The bill also proposes a restructuring of the arms licensing system. Powers to investigate licensing matters have been shifted from magistrates to deputy commissioners, while the authority to issue or cancel arms licenses will now rest with the Secretary of the Home Department. The changes signal a firm stance against illegal weapons, with police being granted the authority to arrest violators without a warrant.
Penalties for possessing or misusing both prohibited and non-prohibited firearms have been significantly increased. Unlicensed possession of non-prohibited weapons could result in at least three years in jail and a Rs. 1 million fine, while public display or use of such arms could lead to seven years in prison and a Rs. 2 million penalty.
The unauthorized possession of prohibited arms could carry a sentence of four to seven years, and their use could lead to 7 to 10 years of imprisonment, each with fines up to Rs. 2 million. Individuals found in possession of two prohibited and five non-prohibited weapons could face up to 14 years in prison and fines as high as Rs. 3 million.
In a sharp increase, the minimum fine for arms-related violations has been raised from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 130,000. Those who fail to pay these fines may face additional jail time ranging from three months to two years.
The amendments also propose the complete removal of Section 27, eliminating any legal exemptions or special treatment in arms-related cases. Additionally, running an arms manufacturing or repair business without a valid license will now be a criminal offense, punishable by seven years in prison and a Rs. 3 million fine.
The bill has been submitted to the Punjab Assembly and will be reviewed by the relevant committee within two months.
