Pune, 1st July 2025: In response to rising crime and misuse of firearm permits as status symbols, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has implemented a stricter policy on issuing gun licenses. Since taking charge in January 2024, the police have revoked 140 existing pistol licenses and rejected over 400 new applications, leading to a sharp decline in permit requests.

As Pune grows rapidly with its expanding IT sector and industrial zones, concerns around personal safety have led many citizens to apply for gun licenses. However, police investigations revealed that several applicants cited self defence or social status without strong justification. The new policy aims to eliminate such frivolous and potentially dangerous approvals.

Between January 2024 and June 2025, the police received 572 applications for firearm licenses. Of these, only 28 were approved, 10 through inheritance and 9 under the sports category. Police authorities have now adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards issuing permits for vague or non-credible reasons.

The police have also conducted thorough background checks on current license holders. In several cases, it was found that licenses had been obtained using false information. Applicants with criminal records or those seeking weapons for prestige have been disqualified.

"Gun licenses will no longer be granted without valid and strong reasons. Only sports shooters and rightful heirs will be considered. As the message spreads, we've seen a visible drop in applications," said Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar.