Assam Government Launches Arms License Scheme to Protect Indigenous Communities

Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has introduced a new arms license service, emphasizing that the government will issue licenses, not provide weapons. The program, accessible through the Sewa Setu portal, targets indigenous communities in border and vulnerable areas, enabling them to apply for arms licenses to enhance their self-defense capabilities. The program seeks to address security concerns, especially in areas with a history of conflict or experiencing demographic changes that threaten indigenous populations. The requirements for an arms license include being an original inhabitant or indigenous citizen of Assam, demonstrating a genuine threat, and residing in a designated vulnerable area. The licensing process involves security evaluations, verification, and ongoing monitoring.