Key Takeaways
- The Telangana DGP has ordered a statewide review of arms licenses to curb illegal firearms and ensure public safety.
- The review aims to identify and address cases of illegal firearms and ensure that all licensing adheres to the Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019.
- Those found with illegal firearms will be served notices and actions will be taken on merit, as per due legal procedures.
Hyderabad: Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) Dr Jitender has ordered a comprehensive review of all arms licenses issued in the state, with a strong focus on cracking down on illegal firearms smuggled into Telangana from other states.
Dr Jitender revealed that 7,125 arms licenses have been issued across the state, covering a total of 9,294 weapons. Notably, only 510 new licenses have been issued over the last three years.
The DGP directed Commissioners and Superintendents of Police to rigorously review license holders who have come to adverse notice and to serve notices as per due legal procedures.
He instructed officers to re-evaluate licenses issued for job-related purposes, particularly to aspiring shooters and sportspersons who have not participated in competitions for extended periods.
The DGP emphasized the need for action in cases where licensees have not purchased weapons within a reasonable timeframe, not bought ammunition for years, or left weapons lying unused in armouries. Only 510 new licenses have been issued over the last three years, highlighting the need for a thorough review of existing licenses.
“In such cases, notices should be served, and actions must be taken on merit,” Dr Jitender stated on Friday. He added that special attention should be given to those who have relocated, urging that such licensees should re-register their licenses in their new jurisdictions. Notices must be served at their last known addresses if they are unreachable.
He stressed that all licensing must adhere to the Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019. During renewals, authorities must thoroughly examine the necessity of continued possession. Licenses lacking valid justification must not be renewed.
“Illegal and unethical practices must not be tolerated in any police unit,” he warned, asserting that all decisions regarding arms licenses should be based solely on the merits of each case and in line with state safety and security interests.
The DGP also called for the collection of intelligence regarding illegal weapons and directed that a “Zero Tolerance Policy” be maintained in such cases.
The review meeting on Friday was attended by senior police officials including Additional DGP (Law & Order) Mahesh M Bhagwat.
