Sivasagar DM issues order for surrendering of firearms

Dibrugarh: Sivasagar district magistrate, Aayush Garg, on Tuesday issued an order urging all firearms licensees in the district to surrender their weapons immediately at their nearest police station.
Ahead of the Panchayat polls on May 2, the order has been enacted under section 4 of the Arms Act, 1959, and section 48(1) of the Arms Rule, 2016.
According to the order, licensees, who fail to comply, will face "necessary action as per provision of Arms Act, 1959." The district administration has emphasised that all firearms and ammunition must be deposited with immediate effect.
However, exemptions have been made for personnel belonging to the armed forces, police, and those engaged in emergency services. "The temporary surrender of firearms is a preventive measure to maintain law and order during the election period. We are committed to conducting free and fair panchayat elections and this step is essential to preventing any intimidation or violence that could disrupt the democratic process," said Garg.
The district administration has assured citizens that all deposited weapons and ammunition will be returned promptly once the election ends. "This is a standard procedure during elections and we appreciate the cooperation of all licensed firearm holders. The weapons will be kept safely and returned as soon as the election process is complete," the DM said.
The election commission has been implementing various measures to ensure peaceful elections, with the surrender of firearms being one of the key security protocols. With the model code of conduct in force, the Sivasagar district administration has also intensified surveillance on illegal arms and cash movements.
The Panchayat polls will be conducted in two phases across 27 districts. While Sivasagar will vote during the first phase on May 2, the second phase is scheduled on May 7.