Guwahati: Nearly 65 per cent compliance has been achieved in the ongoing weapon surrender drive in Assam, even as security agencies maintain close surveillance on surrendered militants and licensed firearm holders to prevent any misuse during the election period.
Officials said exemptions from depositing licensed weapons would be granted only in the rarest of rare cases, and strict action would be taken against those failing to comply. Around 30 per cent of licence holders are still under scrutiny, with district-level committees analysing each case individually before deciding whether exemption is justified, intelligence sources said.
Security agencies have also stepped up monitoring of surrendered militants to ensure they do not regroup or attempt to influence the electoral process.
“Alongside the surrendered militants, licensed firearm holders across the state have been directed to deposit their weapons. Assam is estimated to have around 12,000 licensed arms, and with 70 per cent already surrendered, the drive is nearing completion,’ the source informed.
District committees are verifying compliance, maintaining records and ensuring safe custody of the deposited arms. Until the arms are fully deposited, surrendered militants or any licensed firearm holders remain restricted from participating in political rallies or public activities, a measure aimed at maintaining peace and order during the polls.
Since 2021, more than 9,000 militants have formally laid down arms in Assam, handing over 1,000 weapons including AK-series rifles, pistols, grenades and ammunition. Officials said the disarmament of such a large number of cadres is a significant step towards stability, while vigilance remains necessary during the election period.
Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Akhilesh Singh said enforcing compliance among licensed firearm holders is aimed at preventing the use of weapons during the polls.
“Apart from those traditionally exempted, weapons must be surrendered by one and all until and unless there is a serious and specific threat percept endorsed by the district committee,” he added.