Arms Licenses Cannot Be Cancelled Over Personal Enmity Or Pending Cases: Allahabad High Court

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has established that arms licenses cannot be revoked solely based on personal enmity, pending criminal cases, or potential misuse allegations. Justice Prakash Padia's ruling emphasized that District Magistrates must provide substantive reasoning under the Arms Act when canceling licenses.

The judgment came while overturning the Hapur DM's order that had canceled petitioner Devendra Singh's license following a criminal case registration.

The court noted authorities passed a "mechanical order" without proper consideration of public safety parameters. Advocates argued such arbitrary actions violate citizens' constitutional rights.

The DM has been directed to reevaluate the case within 60 days, following proper procedure. This precedent-setting order clarifies the limited circumstances under which arms licenses may be suspended or canceled.