Guwahati: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has firmly clarified that Assam’s recently updated arms licence policy will not be applicable to the inter-state border regions it shares with Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Nagaland. The announcement comes as a definitive response to public queries and concerns regarding the scope of the new regulations.
The Chief Minister, taking to X, reiterated Assam’s long-standing approach to its border disputes. He stated, “There were some queries regarding whether the arms license policy would also apply to inter-state border areas such as those shared with Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Nagaland. Let us clarify: Assam has always maintained that inter-state border issues are matters that can and should be resolved through mutual understanding and trust.”
Further emphasizing the state’s stance, CM Sarma added, “We do not view these regions as vulnerable in the context of national security threats. Accordingly, the arms license policy will not be applicable to the inter-state border areas of Assam.” This statement underscores the government’s commitment to resolving border matters through dialogue and cooperation rather than treating them as zones demanding heightened security measures.
The Government of Assam, as the Chief Minister articulated, firmly believes that inter-state boundary issues are not security vulnerabilities. Instead, they are considered matters best resolved through understanding and peaceful negotiation. This policy position highlights the state’s continued reliance on mutual trust and dialogue in managing its relationships with neighbouring states.