Overview

• The Assam government’s digital portal for arms licence applications is set to launch under a multi-layered scrutiny process to grant permits to indigenous residents in designated vulnerable districts by early August.
• Nari Nagarik Manch has submitted memoranda to the President, Prime Minister, Governor and Chief Minister, filed plans for a public interest litigation and initiated a social media campaign to demand repeal of the May 28 policy.
• The women’s collective cautioned that licensed civilian armament could reignite gun culture, undermine formal security forces and heighten the risk of gender-based violence and communal tensions.
• Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the policy as a response to long-pending safety demands from the Assam Agitation era and cross-border security concerns, saying arms would not be issued indiscriminately.
• Opposition leaders have urged the central government to intervene and revoke the scheme, warning that it could polarise communities and influence voter mobilisation ahead of the 2026 state elections.