CM’s reply sought on plea for arms manufacturing licence

Petitioner intends to commence in-house manufacturing of small arms, seeks necessary licence

KARACHI:

While hearing a petition filed by an arms dealer against the Sindh government's denial of a permit for the manufacture of small arms in the province, the Sindh High Court (SHC) has directed the chief minister to resolve the matter within 30 days.

In a written order, the court ordered the chief minister to provide a comprehensive and well-reasoned verbal order concerning the application.

The written order, authored by a bench, headed by Chief Justice Ahmed Ali Sheikh and comprising Justice Yousuf Ali Saeed, was announced on a petition filed made by arms dealer Outdoorsman against the provincial government's refusal to grant permission for the manufacturing of small arms.

According to the petitioner, he is a legitimate arms dealer, operating in compliance with the Sindh Arms Rules of 2018. His intention to commence in-house manufacturing of small arms prompted him to approach the Home Department, seeking the necessary licence.

Having fulfilled all the requisite regulations, he was surprised to find that the matter was inexplicably referred to the cabinet, instead of being considered by the appropriate forum.

"This deviation from the established procedure raises concerns of malicious intent and unwarranted delays," the stated and sought a court direction to the Sindh government to make a well-informed decision regarding the issuance of the permit.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 16^th, 2023.