Firearms on file

THE Centre’s move to launch a National Database of Arms Licences is a positive step in curbing the misuse of arms. It would assist law enforcement agencies in identifying weapons used for criminal activities as well as those involved in so-called “accidental” shootings like celebratory firing. Such incidents have become more common in the recent past. Firearm ownership is a privilege in our country and with it comes the responsibility to take care of the weapon, ensure its security and that of the people. Indeed, getting an arms licence is always a tough task. 

India has the distinction of having some of the most stringent gun laws in the world, but lack of a shared database made it difficult to keep track of licensed weapons, or to identify one if it is used in a crime. The issuance of unique identification numbers to gun owners, and the centralised, computerised database would streamline the process of tracking the ownership of weapons. The lead time given to gun owners is sufficient, and the system should be able to roll out by April next year. 

India has the notable distinction of being one of the toughest nations to get a gun licence in. This has allowed the country to keep a check on owners of licensed weapons, even as the security forces fight to keep illegal arms under check. While the authorities are required to establish the need for a gun before issuing a licence, there have been cases of persons of dubious character being issued gun licences. The unique identification number assigned to gun owners and the simple fact of all the data being computerised and available will also help in weeding out undesirable elements. Civilised societies do not need gun-wielding citizens. If some are licensed to carry arms, they must be open to scrutiny and checks by appropriate government agencies.