Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the launch of a dedicated online portal for indigenous residents in "sensitive areas" to apply for arms licenses, aimed at enhancing their safety. The initiative, detailed in a post on X, follows a May 28 state cabinet decision to grant licenses to indigenous people in vulnerable and remote regions to instill a sense of security.

Eligible applicants include "original inhabitants or Indigenous Indian citizens of Assam" who perceive a genuine threat to their lives due to their residence in areas like Dhubri, Morigaon, Barpeta, Nagaon, South Salmara-Mankachar, Rupahi, Dhing, and Jania, which have significant Muslim populations. The portal will allow applications from those in areas notified as vulnerable by district authorities or assessed by security agencies.

Sarma emphasized a rigorous, multi-layered vetting process, including security assessments, compliance with existing laws, non-transferability of licenses, and periodic reviews. “A dedicated portal is coming up where indigenous people, who perceive a threat to their lives and reside in sensitive areas, can apply for Arms License,” he stated.

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The move addresses long-standing demands from indigenous communities, dating back to the Assam Agitation (1979-1985), for enhanced personal security. Sarma stressed the need for “practical steps” to ensure the survival of Assamese people, moving beyond protests. The portal is expected to streamline applications while maintaining strict oversight to ensure responsible implementation.

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