The Punjab government has decided to allow the establishment of gun shooting clubs across the province for the first time in history.

Alongside this development, the government has proposed sweeping amendments to the Punjab Arms Ordinance, 1965, introducing stricter punishments, heavier fines, and significant changes to the arms licensing process.

The initiative, aimed at promoting responsible arms use while curbing illegal weapons trade, smuggling, and terrorism, marks a significant step toward arms regulation in the province.

Gun clubs legalised for the first time

Under the proposed bill, licensed gun shooting clubs will now be permitted to operate in Punjab, offering target shooting training — including with prohibited bore weapons. However, strict regulations will apply. A valid license will be mandatory for operating a gun club, and any violation could result in 5 to 7 years imprisonment and fines of up to Rs3 million.

Key amendments and stricter penalties

The amendments also propose a transfer of key powers related to arms regulation:

• The authority to issue or cancel arms licenses will now rest with the home secretary, instead of the provincial government.

• Licensing investigations and prosecutions will be handled by the deputy commissioner, replacing the magistrate's role.

• Police will now be empowered to arrest violators without a warrant.

The bill outlines severe punishments for illegal possession and misuse of weapons:

• Non-prohibited weapons: Minimum three years imprisonment and a Rs1 million fine for possession; seven years imprisonment and Rs2 million fine for public display or use.

• Prohibited weapons: Four to seven years imprisonment and Rs2 million fine for possession; seven to 10 years imprisonment and a Rs2 million fine for use.

• Large quantities of weapons (two prohibited or five non-prohibited): 10 to 14 years imprisonment and Rs3 million fine.

• Operating an unlicensed arms manufacturing or repair facility will be punishable with seven years imprisonment and a Rs3 million fine.

Additionally, fines have been dramatically increased, with penalties rising from a previous maximum of Rs5,000 to Rs130,000. Failure to pay fines may lead to an extra imprisonment term ranging from three months to two years.

Section 27 abolished, no more exemptions

The bill also abolishes Section 27 of the existing ordinance, removing all special exemptions related to arms use or possession. The aim is to ensure equal enforcement of the law without exceptions.

Safety, responsibility, and oversight

A government spokesperson stated that the proposed law aims to encourage the responsible use of weapons, introduce regulated training environments, and protect public safety by tightening control over arms possession and licensing.

The draft bill has been formally referred to the relevant committee of the Punjab Assembly for review. A report is expected within two months before the legislation can be passed into law.