The Sindh government has unveiled an ambitious plan to replace all existing computerized arms licenses with advanced smart card–based licenses that will be directly integrated with the criminal record database.
This initiative, led by Sindh Interior Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar, seeks to make arms licensing more secure, transparent, and resistant to misuse. Under the proposed system, individuals with a criminal history will be automatically ineligible for a license, effectively tightening security and reducing the risk of licensed weapons falling into the wrong hands.
In a groundbreaking proposal to NADRA, the minister recommended incorporating ballistic signatures of bullets into the licensing data. This forensic technology would allow authorities to instantly trace any bullet back to its registered owner, significantly increasing accountability and making it far more difficult for criminals to evade detection after committing a crime.
Importantly, the transition to smart cards will not impose additional financial burdens on citizens. The new cards will be issued under the existing fee structure, ensuring the reform remains accessible and cost-free for current license holders beyond standard charges.
Minister Lanjar described the reform as a crucial step in the public interest, declaring, “We are closing the doors on criminals, once and for all.”
If implemented successfully, Sindh would become the first province in Pakistan to integrate arms licensing with forensic technology, setting a precedent for the rest of the country. This move could also help shift the gun culture in Karachi and other parts of Sindh—regions that have historically experienced high levels of violence—towards stricter control and greater responsibility in weapon ownership.
By combining smart technology, forensic science, and strict eligibility checks, the Sindh government aims to create a foolproof arms licensing system that prioritizes safety, accountability, and crime prevention.
For people who want to apply for license, must read How To Apply For Arms License In Pakistan?
