The Senate Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control has recommended the immediate suspension of arms licenses issued to non-tax filers and directed authorities to stop issuing new licenses to individuals who do not pay taxes.
The recommendation was made during a committee meeting on Tuesday chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman.
Thousands of Licenses Issued to Non-Filers Raise Concerns
Committee members expressed serious concern over official data showing that around 32,000 arms licenses were issued to non-tax filers, compared to only about 3,000 granted to tax filers. Members termed the disparity alarming and questioned whether the Interior Ministry had complied with existing tax and licensing regulations while issuing these permits.
Lawmakers Call for Mandatory Tax Compliance
Senator Talha Mahmood urged the immediate cancellation of licenses held by non-filers, stating that tax compliance should be mandatory for possessing arms. The committee chairman endorsed this view and stressed that license holders must fulfill their tax obligations if they wish to retain legal permission to carry weapons.
Interior Ministry Seeks Time for Regularisation
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry told the committee that most of the licenses under discussion were issued during previous governments. He said the current administration has tightened licensing policies, blocked nearly 90 percent of new applications, and issued only a limited number of permits.
However, he proposed that existing non-filers be given a deadline to become tax compliant before their licenses are cancelled.
Licenses Linked to Crimes to Be Cancelled Immediately
The committee also directed authorities to immediately cancel any arms licenses linked to weapons used in criminal activities. Members stressed that firearms involved in crimes must result in automatic license revocation and strict legal action against the holders.
Other Matters Reviewed by the Committee
During the same meeting, the Islamabad Metro Bus Service Bill, 2026, was deferred after members suggested that it should be harmonised with similar legislation being prepared by the relevant ministry.
The committee also took up a public importance motion regarding the disappearance of Priya Kumari and the unresolved death of Naresh in Sindh.
Sindh police informed the panel that investigations were ongoing and that new leads pointed to the involvement of an organised gang. The chairman directed authorities to submit regular progress reports.
Members further reviewed a kidnapping-for-ransom case involving two Islamabad residents abducted in Sindh. Police told the committee that the victims were honey-trapped, the ransom amount was recovered, and facilitators were arrested.
The committee called for stronger action to restore law and order in the Katcha areas.
Vehicle Tinting Rules Also Discussed
The meeting also reviewed proposals related to tinted vehicle windows. Members recommended allowing limited tinting only on rear windows and called for strict enforcement through Safe City surveillance cameras to prevent misuse.
Focus on Public Safety and Legal Compliance
The committee said its recommendations are aimed at improving public safety, strengthening law enforcement oversight, and ensuring that firearms licensing is strictly linked to legal and tax compliance.
Authorities are expected to present follow-up reports on implementation in upcoming committee sessions.
