How to Get a Gun License in India and Documents Required for It? Read this blog to have a fair idea about the same.
Obtaining a gun license, especially in India, is not for the faint of heart. In India, the notion of a Gun License in India is governed by the Arms Act of 1959. Any Indian citizen who wishes to acquire a firearm may only purchase NPB firearms. This statute has a clause that permits people to obtain the authority to carry a firearm if they face a serious threat to their lives.
The dilemma of how to justify a risk to your life emerges. You can just file an FIR to demonstrate that it is not difficult. However, the entire procedure of obtaining a Gun License in India is lengthy. Here’s how to obtain a firearms license.
What is the Indian Arms Act,1959?
The Indian Arms Act, enacted in 1959, regulates the acquisition, possession, sale, purchase, manufacturing, transportation, import, export, and licensing of arms and ammunition. According to a 2016 census, around 5 per 100 civilians in India own firearms, ranking the country 120th globally in terms of civilian firearm ownership. Data indicates that Uttar Pradesh has over 1.2 million active firearm licenses. The Arms Act mandates imprisonment and fines for carrying weapons without a license.
Firearms and weapons can only be possessed with a license issued by district authorities. The Act also requires licenses for sharp objects, such as knives and swords, exceeding nine inches in length. In 2016, the Act was amended to require applicants for arms licenses to undergo safety training, including basic knowledge of arms and ammunition and safe handling techniques, with licenses to be issued within 60 days by the concerned authorities.
A further amendment in 2019 aimed to reduce the number of licensed firearms an individual can possess and proposed strict penalties for illegal firearm possession and reckless gunfire, which could endanger lives. Such acts could result in two years of imprisonment, a fine of ₹1 lakh, or both. The amendment also introduced life imprisonment for manufacturing illegal firearms.
How Do I Obtain a Firearms License?
- The first step in obtaining a gun license in India is filling out an application. The district superintendent of police can provide a gun licensing form. A Gun License in India can also be obtained online.
- When the police receive your request, they verify your residence and check your criminal history.
- Address verification and the status of previous criminal records are insufficient to show your eligibility for a Gun License. Neighbors reported to the police about your personality and conduct. The investigation will involve cross-checking with members of society to see if you were involved in any conflicts or revealed your hypersensitive nature during arguments.
- The District Superintendent also conducts interviews with applicants seeking a Gun License in India. This interview determines whether you have any physical or mental limitations.
- The most frequent inquiry, “Why do you require a gun?” is asked to elicit a satisfactory and legal response from you. Gun License in India can also be obtained by those seeking safety from wild animals.
- The interview report is forwarded to the crime branch and the national crime record bureau.
Individuals are given the green light to obtain a weapons license when all checking is completed and the DCP is pleased with the appropriate information.
- Documents needed for the application of guns from the factories
- The license issued with the valid date and location should be in English or Hindi.
- Photocopy of a gun license
- A copy of the non-objection certificate for the factory’s owner and police authorities.
- Transport the license from the Manufacturer.
Who Can Apply for a License and When?
The Indian Arms Act allows for two licenses: NPB (non-prohibited bore) and PB (prohibited bore).
NPB permits can be awarded to every one of Indian ancestry who meets the following criteria:
- Individuals may be vulnerable to attack due to wealth, threats, etc.
- General security entails providing safety for banks, institutions, and so on. This includes shooters VVIPs, and politician protection squads.
- Crop Protection – those with agricultural or similar fields that require protection from unscheduled pests and vermin such as boars, etc.
- For Any Particular Sports Shooting – Those who practice sports shooting and require firearms for competition.
- Returning NRIs – Any Indian returning to India who has had a gun in his overseas residency for more than two years can seek an Indian license and carry the gun they owned abroad back with them.
- Foreign National Status – Given acceptable circumstances, any foreign national may own and bear arms for six months during their stay in India.
The weapon assigned to you can be a rifle, handgun (pistol/revolver), or shotgun (DBBL and SBBL). The license also specifies the maximum amount of ammo that may be bought at one time and the maximum amount that can be possessed at one time. All of this depends on the special agent’s requirements and discretion.
On the other hand, a PB license can be awarded exclusively to special agencies and persons. It will need a practical application to the Home Department, the Governor, or the Prime Minister – as an example. Dhoni obtained a PB license for his 9 mm pistol. The caliber of these firearms determines the PB and NBP. PB guns are mostly used by defense and similar forces and are thus categorized as non-civilian and non-commercial arms.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Gun in India?
The pistol is supplied to the purchaser after two months of waiting, and it may take up to three months in some cases, depending on the factory’s manufacturing system. Those who want to renew their gun license can do so using a renewal form.
The customer is required to provide the weapon with the Gun License in India and all other documentation they attested to when they obtained their license on the renewal form.
How Do You Sell Your Licensed Firearm?
To sell your licensed gun, you must fill out an application with a ₹5 court stamp (may vary) along with a copy of your original gun lientery should also notify the arms branch of your desire to sell your firearm.
Can an Indian Citizen Living Abroad Obtain a Gun License in India?
Obtaining a firearms license in India is dependent on the abroad citizen’s domicile. It must demonstrate that the state of residency is permanent. It should have a good justification for wanting a gun license. Obtaining a visa for an overseas citizen visiting India for a short period is extremely difficult.
When Is a Firearms License Revoked?
If a person conceals or fails to provide the relevant material facts for obtaining a Gun License in India, regulators may revoke the license. Regulators can also suspend a gun license for a certain period. The license officer can restrict a gun license if he finds the gun user has breached specific statutes. They can also suspend a firearm license if there is a danger in public or if the weapon is not supplied after the licensing time has elapsed.
Conclusion
As stated above, certain criteria need to be fulfilled if one wants to Apply for a Gun License. Meeting these criteria is challenging, so if we want to apply for it, we need to have a valid reason or NRI status to obtain it. But then, there are many cases in which it can be easier to get a gun license. we need to follow a proper method to gain it. Get in touch with the legal experts of Vakilsearch to know further details on the article.
FAQ’s on Gun License in India
What is the cost of a gun permit in India?
The cost of a gun permit in India is Rs.1000 at the time of grant for handguns (revolvers/pistols), centrefire rifles, breach loading centerfire rifles, 0.22 bore rim-fire rifles, smooth bore breach loading shotguns, and air weapons.
Can a normal person get a gun license in India?
A normal person in India can apply for a gun license by meeting the eligibility criteria and following the prescribed application process, which includes obtaining clearance from the local police and district authorities.
How much is 1 pistol?
The price of 1 pistol in India can vary widely based on the make, model, and other factors. It is recommended to consult authorized firearm dealers or manufacturers for the specific price of a pistol.
Who is eligible for gun Licence India?
Eligibility for a Gun License in India includes being a citizen of India, being above the age of 21 years, and meeting the specific criteria set by the state authorities. The purposes for which a gun license could be granted are limited, such as self-defense and sports.
Can I buy a gun without a license in India?
It is illegal to buy a gun without a license in India. The purchase of firearms in India requires a valid gun license issued by the appropriate authorities.
Is 9mm pistol legal in India?
Yes, 9mm pistols are legal in India, subject to the individual obtaining the special Gun License in India and following the regulations outlined in the Arms Act of 1959 and the Arms Rules of 1962.
Can I keep pistol in India?
A licensed individual can keep a pistol in India after obtaining a valid gun license and adhering to the regulations and conditions specified in the license and the relevant laws.
Can anyone buy a pistol in India?
Not everyone can buy a pistol in India. The purchase of a pistol in India requires a valid gun license issued by the appropriate authorities, and the buyer must meet the eligibility criteria and follow the prescribed application process.
Can I carry a licensed gun in train in India?
A licensed individual can carry a Gun License in India, subject to compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by the Indian Railways and the relevant authorities. It is essential to carry a gun license and adhere to the specific guidelines for carrying firearms on trains.
What guns are legal to buy in India?
In India, civilians can legally purchase firearms such as handguns (pistols and revolvers) and shotguns, provided they obtain the necessary license from district authorities. Semi-automatic and fully automatic firearms are generally prohibited for civilian use. The process involves thorough background checks and adherence to strict regulations.
Can I buy a sniper gun in India?
No, civilians in India cannot legally buy sniper rifles. The Arms Act and its subsequent amendments restrict the possession of high-caliber, precision firearms like sniper rifles to military and law enforcement personnel. Civilians are limited to less powerful firearms, such as handguns and shotguns, for self-defense or sporting purposes.
Is air gun legal in India?
Air guns are legal in India but are subject to certain regulations. Air guns with a muzzle energy of less than 20 joules and a bore not exceeding 0.177 inches (4.5 mm) do not require a license. However, more powerful air guns require a license, similar to firearms. They are often used for sport shooting and pest control.
Can IAS carry a gun?
Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers do not have the inherent right to carry firearms. However, like any civilian, they can apply for a Gun License in India if they meet the necessary criteria and can demonstrate a valid need for self-defense. Approval is at the discretion of the licensing authorities.
Which self-defence weapons are legal in India?
Legal self-defense weapons in India include pepper spray, small knives (blade length less than nine inches), and licensed handguns. Civilians can also use personal alarms and tactical flashlights for self-defense. All weapons used for self-defense must comply with the regulations set forth in the Arms Act and other relevant laws.
