State Government to Accept Unlicensed Arms, Threatens Strict Action After Deadline

Bengaluru, September 11 – Karnataka’s state government, led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivkumar, has opened a short‑term window for owners of illegal or unlicensed firearms to deposit them with authorities by 1 November. The move, announced at the National Forest Martyrs' Day ceremony, is intended to remove dangerous weapons from forests and rural areas.

Shivkumar made it clear that any person who does not comply with the surrender order will be subject to rigorous legal measures, including possible criminal prosecution. Conversely, those who willingly surrender weapons before the deadline will face no charges.

The chief minister cited a tragic incident where unlicensed guns led to the death of forest staff, underscoring the urgency of the initiative. He urged gun owners to apply for a legitimate licence if they need a firearm for personal safety or to protect livestock.

He also referenced a previous collection drive in which more than 300 illegal rifles were handed over by constituents, noting that the current inventory of unregistered weapons remains high.

In addition, the government will soon decide on the pending demands regarding forest‑personnel allowances, with the finance ministry and police department involved in the final decision. Shivkumar reflected on his deep ties to forest‑dependent villages, his early desire to become forest minister, and his commitment to resolve forest‑related conflicts through lawful means.