Punjab Government Announces Historic Decision to Legalize Gun Shooting Clubs and Amend Arms Ordinance
In a groundbreaking move, the Punjab government has decided to allow the establishment of gun shooting clubs across the province for the first time in history. This decision marks a significant shift in arms regulation in Punjab, alongside proposed amendments to the Punjab Arms Ordinance, 1965.
Gun Shooting Clubs Legalized
The new initiative is aimed at promoting responsible arms use and curbing issues like illegal weapons trade, smuggling, and terrorism. Under the proposed legislation, licensed gun shooting clubs will be allowed to operate in Punjab, offering target shooting training, including with prohibited bore weapons.
However, the operation of these clubs will be tightly regulated. A valid license will be mandatory to run a gun shooting club, and any violations could result in severe penalties, including 5 to 7 years imprisonment and fines of up to Rs 3 million.
Read More: Islamabad Police Mandates Three-Day Training for Gun License Applicants
Stricter Amendments to Arms Licensing Process
The bill proposes several key amendments that introduce stricter penalties and changes in the arms licensing process:
- Licensing Authority Shift: The power to issue or cancel arms licenses will now lie with the home secretary, instead of the provincial government.
- Investigations and Prosecutions: Licensing investigations and prosecutions will be managed by the deputy commissioner, replacing the magistrate’s role.
- Police Empowerment: The police will have the authority to arrest violators without a warrant.
Tougher Penalties for Illegal Arms Possession and Use
The bill outlines severe punishments for various offenses related to arms possession and misuse:
- Non-Prohibited Weapons:
- Possession: Minimum three years imprisonment and a Rs 1 million fine.
- Public display or use: Seven years imprisonment and a Rs 2 million fine.
- Prohibited Weapons:
- Possession: Four to seven years imprisonment and a Rs 2 million fine.
- Use: Seven to 10 years imprisonment and a Rs 2 million fine.
- Large Quantities of Weapons:
- Possession of two prohibited or five non-prohibited weapons: 10 to 14 years imprisonment and a Rs 3 million fine.
- Illegal Arms Manufacturing or Repair: Operating an unlicensed facility will result in seven years imprisonment and a Rs 3 million fine.
Additionally, fines have been significantly increased, rising from a maximum of Rs 5,000 to Rs 130,000. Failure to pay fines could lead to further imprisonment ranging from three months to two years.
Section 27 Abolished – No More Exemptions
The proposed bill also abolishes Section 27 of the existing ordinance, removing all special exemptions related to arms possession and use. This change ensures that the law is enforced equally, with no exceptions granted.
Focus on Safety and Oversight
A government spokesperson emphasized that the primary goal of the proposed legislation is to encourage responsible weapon use, facilitate regulated training environments, and enhance public safety by tightening control over arms possession and licensing.
Next Steps
The draft bill has been referred to the relevant committee of the Punjab Assembly for review. A report is expected within two months, after which the legislation could be passed into law.
