Arms licences for people only after strict evaluation: Himanta

Time of India

3 days ago

Guwahati: Amid criticism over the Assam govt's decision to issue arms licences to indigenous people, chief minister
Himanta Biswa Sarma
on Sunday said it would only be granted following thorough evaluation and verification processes.
Speaking to reporters on the side-line of a campaign in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) region, Sarma emphasised the need to secure both land rights and arms licences for indigenous communities. He argued that in areas like South Salmara-Mankachar and Bagbar — where indigenous communities are surrounded by larger populations — access to arms is essential for their safety.
The state cabinet's decision, announced on May 28, aims to provide a sense of security among residents of "vulnerable and remote" areas, which include districts like Dhubri, Morigaon, Barpeta, Nagaon, and South Salmara-Mankachar, as well as localities such as Rupahi, Dhing, and Jonia.
These areas are predominantly inhabited by Bengali-speaking Muslims, leading to accusations from the opposition that the policy is intended to polarise communities and could threaten the state's peace.
Addressing potential eviction drives in the BTC region, Sarma clarified that no such action would be taken until land ownership documents are issued to indigenous residents. He also expressed concern over demographic changes in the region, suggesting that the increasing influence of a particular community could undermine the political power of the Bodos and other indigenous groups.
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