Punjab Government Reopens Computerization of Manual Arms Licenses–Read Full Notification

Punjab Government Reopens Revalidation of Manual Arms Licenses:

The Punjab Home Department has issued an important government notification regarding the revalidation and computerization of manual arms licenses. This notification comes as a relief for individuals who possess authentic manual arms licenses but missed the initial deadline for computerization.

The government first launched the computerization of manual arm licenses in 2016, with the final deadline set for December 31, 2020. As per a prior notification, all unregistered manual licenses were canceled on September 1, 2022. However, recognizing that many valid license holders were unable to complete the process, the Punjab Government has now decided to reopen the revalidation process.

Eligible individuals can now apply for revalidation at their respective divisional commissioners’ offices or through the Additional Secretary (Judicial), Home Department. The verification process will include cross-checking records with the Deputy Commissioner’s offices before issuing a new computerized arms license with the same weapon number.

SO(Judl-1)14-17/2025
GOVERNMENT OF THE PUNJAB
HOME DEPARTMENT

Dated: Lahore, the 25^th February,2025

To

All the Divisional Commissioners,
Punjab.

SUBJECT:             REVALIDATION/COMPUTERIZATION OF MANUAL ARMS LICENSES

                             I am directed to refer to the subject cited above and to intimate that the Home Department, Government of Punjab, initiated the exercise of revalidation / computerization of manual arm licenses in 2016. The last date for individuals to apply for this revalidation was December 31, 2020. Individuals who failed to apply within the stipulated time, their manual licenses/booklets stand canceled as per this department’s notification dated 01-09-2022 (copy enclosed).

2.                           It has come to the attention of the Competent Authority that many valid and authentic arm licenses could not be computerized during the initial exercise. However, these individuals still possess both the weapons and the canceled manual booklets.

3.                          I am further directed to intimate that the Competent Authority has decided to reopen the revalidation and computerization, specifically for valid individual arm licenses. In this regard, eligible individuals, holding authentic manual arm licenses, can apply for revalidation at the offices of the Commissioner of their respective divisions as well as with Additional Secretary (Judicial), Home Department. Upon verification of credentials and cross-checking records with the Deputy Commissioner’s offices and subsequent approval by Commissioner concerned/ Additional Secretary (Judicial), Home Department, eligible candidates will be issued new arm licenses having same weapon number to replace the canceled manual booklets.

4.                           The following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) shall be strictly adhered to during this exercise:

i.             All Divisional Commissioners / Additional Secretary (Judicial) shall be personally responsible for overseeing the revalidation / computerization process at their respective levels.

ii.            The authority for revalidation shall remain exclusively with the Commissioner/ Additional Secretary (Judicial), and shall not be delegated to any subordinate officer.

iii.           The concerned Commissioner/ Additional Secretary (Judicial) shall approve the case of revalidation/computerization of a valid arm license through a well-reasoned, speaking order.

iv.           In case any anomaly or malafide is detected during verification from Deputy Commissioner Offices, the Commissioner concerned on its own or on the recommendation of Additional Secretary (Judicial) shall initiate inquiry proceedings against the responsible officers/officials.

v.            The renewal fee for arm licenses, as prescribed under the Punjab Arms Rules, 2023, shall be applicable.

SECTION OFFICER (JUDICIAL-I)

Compliance and Next Steps for Arms License Holders:

This latest government notification provides an opportunity for valid arms license holders to complete the computerization process and obtain a legal, digital record of their license. The Punjab Home Department has outlined strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure a transparent and accountable process.

All applications will be carefully verified by the concerned Commissioner or Additional Secretary (Judicial), and no authority will be delegated to subordinates. Any anomalies or fraudulent activities discovered during the verification process will lead to investigations against responsible officials. Additionally, applicants must pay the prescribed renewal fee under the Punjab Arms Rules, 2023.

To avoid legal complications and ensure compliance with Punjab’s updated arms regulations, all eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for revalidation promptly. Stay connected with Vocal Pakistan for further updates on government notifications, official policies, and regulatory changes.

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