The issue of granting arms licenses to Panchayat representatives, particularly Mukhiya, was raised forcefully in the Bihar Legislative Assembly on Monday. While the opposition termed it a result of the government’s years-long negligence, the ruling party rejected the allegations, calling it a serious matter related to the safety of elected representatives.
National Lok Morcha MLA Alok Singh said in the House that the role of a Mukhiya at the Panchayat level is extremely sensitive. Due to land disputes, implementation of government schemes, and local conflicts, Mukhiya often face threats. He questioned why the process of granting arms licenses was still pending despite the government having taken a decision on the matter earlier.
RJD MLA Gautam Krishna targeted the government, stating that provisions already exist for reviewing arms license applications within 60 days, but these are not implemented in practice. He said that if the government were genuinely concerned about the safety of public representatives, the issue would not have been ignored for years.
Rejecting the opposition’s allegations, JD(U) MLA Bhishma Kushwaha said the government is concerned about the security of Panchayat-level representatives and that the issue should not be viewed through the lens of Panchayat elections. BJP MLA Krishna Kumar Mantu also defended the government, stating that it stands with elected representatives of all sections and is focusing on security along with development.
During the debate, Home Minister Samrat Choudhary said that clear and strict instructions would be issued to all district magistrates within seven days. He said the process of arms license applications for Mukhiya, including police verification and security assessment, would be expedited. He added that after thorough verification, only eligible and genuinely threatened Mukhiya would be granted arms or pistol licenses, and the entire process would be closely monitored to prevent misuse.
However, the opposition alleged that the government raised the issue of Mukhiya security only because Panchayat elections are approaching. Opposition members argued that the Nitish Kumar-led government has been in power for a long time, yet no concrete steps were taken in this direction until now.
Following the Assembly debate, it remains to be seen whether the government’s directives will actually speed up the arms license process at the district level or whether the issue will once again remain limited to political statements.
