DCs, ASJ allowed to issue licences for arms repair

LAHORE : The Punjab Home Department has introduced a groundbreaking measure regarding arms licences and the authority for issuing licences related to arms repair has been transferred to Deputy Commissioners and the Additional Secretary Judicial of the Home Department.

According to the Punjab Home Department spokesperson, this delegation of powers has been implemented under the Punjab Arms Rules 2023. A notification issued by the Home Department states that Deputy Commissioners and the Additional Secretary Judicial (ASJ) have been authorised to issue licences for arms repair. Additionally, the validation of old licences for arms repair now also falls under their jurisdiction. The spokesperson added that the authority to issue duplicate licences for arms repair has similarly been assigned to these officials.

Previously, the authority to modify existing arms categories, alter bore types, and increase bullet quantities had already been delegated to DCs. They are also authorised to issue duplicate arms licences. As per the notification, the DCs are required to share updated records of arms licences with the Home Department on a monthly basis.