In a major policy shift, the Punjab government has decided to amend the Arms Ordinance, 1965, to formally allow the establishment of gun shooting clubs for the first time in the province. The move aims to regulate shooting sports and curb the misuse of firearms.

According to sources, under the proposed amendments, gun clubs will be required to obtain a license, and operating without one could result in 5 to 7 years of imprisonment and fines of up to Rs3 million.

The draft bill proposes a minimum of 3 years in prison and a fine of Rs1 million for unauthorised possession of non-prohibited weapons. Display or use of such arms without permission could lead to 7 years in jail and a fine of Rs2 million.

Possession of two prohibited and five non-prohibited weapons could carry a sentence of up to 14 years in prison and a fine of Rs3 million.

People in Punjab can get arms repair licences from deputy commissioners

The bill also states that all exemptions have been eliminated. Additionally, repairing or manufacturing weapons without a license could result in 7 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs3 million.

Under the amendments, the authority to issue or cancel arms licenses will rest with the Secretary of the Home Department, while deputy commissioners—not magistrates—will be empowered to investigate and take licensing action.

Police will also have the power to make arrests without warrants, and no leniency will be allowed in arms-related cases.

The bill, which seeks to regulate the gun culture and prevent arms misuse, has been referred to the relevant committee of the Punjab Assembly and is expected to be tabled in the house after approval.

Punjab Home Department announces changes to arms licences verification