IT is commendable that the Punjab government is moving to eliminate illegal weapons from the province. It now remains to be seen how effective and equitable the crackdown proves to be.

The decision, taken during a Friday meeting presided over by the provincial chief executive, entails the introduction of new laws in the province, integrated security measures and the regulation of licensed arms through strict scrutiny of their bearers. Separately, the provincial police chief has announced the Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act, 2025, which is to be implemented in a phased manner.

The first phase will seek the surrender of all illegal weapons, which will then be destroyed in the second phase. Finally, the provincial........

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