The government has ordered the deposition of all licensed firearms at the nearest police stations by January 31, ahead of the national election scheduled for February 12.
The directive was issued through a notification by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday.
The notification also bans the carrying or public display of firearms until the completion of the national election and referendum.
The restriction will, however, not apply to candidates whose nomination papers have been validly submitted and accepted by the Election Commission, or to armed ‘retainers’ duly authorised for them.
The notification warns that any violation of the order will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
All superintendents of police and the authorities concerned have been instructed to take necessary measures to ensure the implementation of the directive.
The government on December 15 formulated a policy on issuing firearm licences and appointing armed retainers for politically important individuals and candidates ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election slated for February 12.
Titled ‘Firearm Licence and Retainer Appointment Policy–2025 for Politically Important Persons and Candidates for the Post of Member of Parliament’, the policy was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The ministry said the policy was formulated to ensure public security, maintain law and order and prevent election-time violence.
Under the policy, a ‘retainer’ is defined as an armed person appointed and authorised to protect a politically important individual or a candidate.
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A ‘politically important person’ refers to a current or former high-ranking political figure recognised by the government.
To be eligible for a firearm licence, an applicant must be a recognised politically important person or a candidate who has submitted nomination papers for the 13th Parliamentary Election, and must face a verified security threat as assessed by the relevant authorities, including intelligence agencies.