As per Lawkidunya, The issuance and regulation of arms licenses in Pakistan is a complex and sensitive issue. The country has a long history of arms licensing, dating back to the British colonial era. Over the years, the laws and regulations governing arms licenses have undergone significant changes. One of the most critical aspects of arms licensing in Pakistan is the concept of prohibited bore arms licenses. In this article, we will delve into the world of prohibited bore arms licenses in Pakistan, exploring the laws, regulations, and procedures governing their issuance.
What are Prohibited Bore Arms in Pakistan
Prohibited bore arms refer to firearms that are banned or restricted under Pakistani law. These arms are considered to be particularly dangerous or sensitive, and their possession, sale, or transfer is strictly regulated. Prohibited bore arms include, but are not limited to, firearms with a bore diameter exceeding 0.312 inches, such as rifles and shotguns.
The Law Governing Prohibited Bore Arms Licenses
The primary legislation governing prohibited bore arms licenses in Pakistan is the Arms Act, 1878. This Act, along with its subsequent amendments, provides the framework for the regulation of arms licenses in Pakistan. The Act divides firearms into three categories: prohibited bore, non-prohibited bore, and arms requiring a special license.
Eligibility Criteria For Prohibited Bore Arms Licenses
To be eligible for a prohibited bore arms license in Pakistan, an individual must meet certain criteria. These criteria include:
1. Age: The applicant must be at least 25 years old.
2. Citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of Pakistan.
3. Residence: The applicant must be a resident of Pakistan.
4. Character: The applicant must be of good character and have no criminal record.
5. Need: The applicant must demonstrate a genuine need for the prohibited bore arms license, such as for hunting or sport shooting.
Procedure For Obtaining a Prohibited Bore Arms License
The procedure for obtaining a prohibited bore arms license in Pakistan is as follows:
1. Application: The applicant must submit an application to the licensing authority, which is typically the district magistrate or the home secretary.
2. Verification: The licensing authority verifies the applicant’s credentials, including their age, citizenship, residence, and character.
3. Background Check: The licensing authority conducts a background check on the applicant to ensure they have no criminal record.
4. Interview: The applicant is interviewed by the licensing authority to assess their need for the prohibited bore arms license.
5. Medical Certificate: The applicant must provide a medical certificate stating they are mentally and physically fit to possess a firearm.
6. License Fee: The applicant must pay a license fee, which varies depending on the type of firearm and the applicant’s category.
7. License Issuance: If the applicant meets all the eligibility criteria and completes the required procedure, the licensing authority issues the prohibited bore arms license.
Renewal and Cancellation of Prohibited Bore Arms Licenses
Prohibited bore arms licenses in Pakistan are typically valid for a period of three years. To renew their license, the license holder must submit an application to the licensing authority, along with the required documents and fee. The licensing authority may cancel a prohibited bore arms license if the license holder fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the license, or if they are convicted of a crime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, prohibited bore arms licenses in Pakistan are governed by the Arms Act, 1878, and are subject to strict eligibility criteria and procedures. The licensing authority has the discretion to issue or refuse a prohibited bore arms license, and the license holder must comply with the terms and conditions of the license. The regulation of prohibited bore arms licenses is critical to ensuring public safety and preventing the misuse of firearms in Pakistan.
