Guwahati: Nearly 65 per cent compliance has been achieved in the ongoing weapon surrender drive in Assam, as security agencies intensify monitoring to ensure peaceful elections. Officials said licensed firearm holders have been directed to deposit their weapons, with exemptions granted only in the “rarest of rare” cases. Around 30 per cent of licence holders remain under scrutiny, with district-level committees reviewing each case before allowing any exemption.
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Security agencies are also keeping close watch on surrendered militants to prevent regrouping or any attempt to influence the electoral process. Assam has around 12,000 licensed arms, and with nearly 70 per cent already deposited, authorities said the drive is nearing completion. Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Akhilesh Singh said the move is aimed at preventing misuse of weapons during the polls. He emphasised that, except in specific threat cases approved by district committees, all arms must be surrendered.
District authorities are maintaining records and ensuring safe custody of deposited weapons. Until full compliance is achieved, both surrendered militants and licensed firearm holders have been restricted from participating in political rallies or public activities. Since 2021, over 9,000 militants have laid down arms in the state, depositing around 1,000 weapons, including rifles, pistols and ammunition. Officials termed the disarmament a major step towards stability, while stressing continued vigilance during the election period.
