The Senate Standing Committee on Interior on Tuesday revealed a major discrepancy in the issuance of weapon licenses. Non-tax filers have received 33,000 licenses. Tax filers, on the other hand, have been issued only 3,000 licenses.
Senator Talha Mahmood presented these figures during the committee meeting. He pointed out that non-filers are receiving the majority of licenses, despite not fulfilling their tax obligations.
The committee chairman responded by instructing that licenses of non-filers should be immediately revoked. He emphasized that weapon licenses can only be issued to those who comply with the law, including paying taxes.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also spoke at the meeting. He said that in previous governments, an excessive number of licenses were issued. “We have tightened the policy now,” he said. “Only a few thousand licenses have been granted recently. Ninety percent of licenses are now blocked. This is the Ministry of Interior, not a licensing branch.”
The chairman further directed that licenses linked to criminal incidents must be cancelled immediately. He stressed that the safety of citizens is paramount and weapon licenses should not be misused.
In response, Talal Chaudhry said that immediate cancellation may not be practical. He suggested giving license holders a short grace period. However, he warned that if taxes are not paid within the given time, the licenses will be revoked.
The committee also discussed the need for stronger monitoring of license issuance. Members said authorities must ensure that weapons are not used in crimes. The chairman stated that strict compliance with laws is necessary to prevent illegal use of firearms.
The meeting highlighted the importance of linking weapon licenses with tax compliance. Lawmakers said this would help ensure fairness and accountability. They also called for regular audits of issued licenses to prevent misuse.
