Women’s Forum Urges Assam Government to Reject Arms License Grant to Civilians

• Nari Nagarik Manch, an apolitical forum of women in Assam, has urged the state government to revoke its decision to grant arms licenses to “indigenous people in sensitive areas”.

• The group warns that the move could undermine peace-building and escalate tensions in Assam.

• The women’s forum has resolved to launch a campaign against the May 28 State Cabinet decision on issuing arms licenses.

• The group warns that the policy could fuel a gun culture and risk triggering an arms race.

• They urge the government to focus on strengthening the police, Border Security Force, and border patrols, rather than “weaponising civilians.”