According to Indian law, owning a firearm is not considered a fundamental right. The whole process of purchasing a firearm legally is not an easy one. Under the Indian system, legal guns made available in India are strictly governed by many regulations. They include the Arms Act 1959 and the Arms Rules 2016. In addition, the Indian law states that only a few eligible citizens can acquire and legally possess guns or firearms, under certain regulations.
Let us explore the criteria for buying firearms in India.
- To desire to possess a firearm, you must first apply for the same.
- Only individuals above 21 years are allowed to apply.
- Citizens who need a firearm (for safety or sport) are eligible
- Individuals who have zero criminal record and zero history of mental illness can apply for a firearm.
- Applicants must plan to store the firearm in a safe place.
- The safe place must be kept a secret so that people do not get easy access to it.
Some primary reasons for possession of firearms
The law decides whether an individual is eligible to apply for a firearm in India. Some of the justified reasons are:
- Self-Defense – This is the foremost reason for getting a gun license, especially in urban areas. Applicants need to demonstrate a substantial threat to their lives that cannot be ignored or mitigated by other security services. The threat may also be assessed by the local police in such cases.
- For Security – Legal guns are made available in India for affluent business owners or high-level professionals who may fall prey to burglaries. Documented evidence of threat may be required to substantiate the urgent need for a gun for personal security.
- Sports – People who indulge in sports like target shooting or big game hunting can apply for a license under sports category. Applicants with a rifle club membership can have a better chance of procuring a gun license. Participation in target practice or shooting competitions records may be seen and evaluated under this category.
- Protection for Crops – This is mainly applicable in distant rural areas teeming with wildlife that can threaten livestock and crops. Under this category, farmers and rural landowners can apply for a license to protect their livestock from wild animals. For this, applicants must prove their status. An authentic farmer or landowner can prove the presence of wildlife in their areas and subsequent threat to their livelihood.
The Application Process
The lengthy process for applying for a gun license in India is exhaustive and includes numerous steps so that only eligible and responsible citizens are granted this right.
The application process is as follows:
- Application Form – You have to fill out an application form that can be obtained online or from the local district police headquarters. You can log on to the official police state website. This form must be duly filled out giving all relevant details.
- Submit Documents – For legal guns available in India, a completed application form must be sent along with several necessary documents of proof. These may include proof of identity, (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, passport), proof of residence (rental agreement or home papers). You must also attach a recent photo (passport size), and medical certificate certifying your fitness and mental health.
- Supportive Reason – A valid reason for the requirement of a firearm is necessary, which is supported by documents and proof. For example, any threat letters or pictures showing destruction of crops by wildlife.
- Character Certificate – An authentic character certificate that vouches for the good behaviour of the applicant and his/her background.
- Previous Possession – Any previous history of possession of firearm licenses and documented proof (if any).
Additional Requirements & Background Checks
For legal guns available in India, the procedure is not completed with proper background checks. Once the application (online or offline) is submitted, the local police are responsible for conducting background checks. This may include searching for any criminal records, interviews with neighbours, and a direct interview with the applicant. All these are done to assess the gun applicant’s behaviour and character. To see whether he has genuine intentions behind wanting to own a firearm. Checks are also done to ascertain whether the applicant is a possible security risk to others.
Additional requirements mainly depend on the state jurisdiction and the reasons stated in the application. More info may include proof of membership in any shooting club or sports academy, or being a farmer.
Final Approval & Decision
The final decision to approve everything and grant a firearm license is the responsibility of the licensing authority. The District Superintendent of Police or the Police Commissioner for urban areas is given this duty. The approval is given based on all the available data and information in compliance with all legal formalities.
Special Training Course
Legal guns available in India are handed to applicants who have undergone training on how to operate a firearm safely. The course will cover all basics including safety practices, shooting tests, legal knowledge of firearms, etc.
License Issuance & Registration
When the application is approved, the authorities will duly issue the license. The license paper will contain information about the type and quantity of guns the holder can buy. Once the license is issued, the firearm license owner can buy the firearm from a registered dealer.
The gun or firearm purchase must be documented and reported to the local police for gun registration purposes. Through the Geam Guns website, you can get the details of all the authorized firearm dealers in India.
FAQs
No, firearm licenses in the Indian subcontinent are valid only for a limited period (three years). After the license period, it must be renewed and the process may involve a review of the previous documents and the license holder’s fresh eligibility options. The authorities may ask for a new set of proof and documents plus background checks.
It is important that the firearm owner keeps the firearm in a secure storage space, to prevent its misuse or unauthorized access. The owner must also maintain accurate records of the gun usage and servicing dates.