Shillong: Gun owners in East Khasi Hills are dragging their feet. The district administration flagged over 3,000 expired arms licences, but just 400 people have stepped up to renew them over the last 20 days. The deadline sits at September 20. Officials might tack on another week or two, but the clock is ticking.
Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal says holding a gun without a valid permit breaks the law. His office posted a full list of expired permits online so residents can check their status. Some of these licences have sat idle for as long as 15 years. Owners can still fix their status by paying a penalty fee.
Baranwal warned that after the grace period ends, the Superintendent of Police will step in. He said, "After the deadline and any possible extension, the office of the Superintendent of Police would be directed to ensure that the holders of unrenewed licences surrender their arms to the nearest police station until their licences are duly renewed."
The push for compliance follows a string of attacks on police and government property across Shillong. Authorities ordered increased night patrols and tasked sector magistrates with keeping tabs on suspicious activity alongside community leaders. Only the District Magistrate holds the authority to issue these permits, which cover both handguns and rifles. Sub-Divisional Magistrates lack that power.
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