Ladakh Bans Carrying of Licensed Arms in Nubra Ahead of Panchayat Elections
Nubra, KNT: The District Magistrate of Nubra in Ladakh has prohibited the carrying of licensed firearms within the sub-division during the Panchayat Elections 2026, directing all licensed weapon holders to deposit their arms at the nearest police station.
An order issued by District Magistrate Mukul Beniwal (IAS) said the restriction was imposed to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections and maintain public peace, tranquillity and law and order during the electoral process.
Invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the order prohibits the carrying of licensed arms within Nubra with immediate effect upon the announcement of the elections. The restriction will remain in force until the declaration of the election results.
All persons holding licensed firearms in Nubra have been directed to deposit their weapons at the concerned police station. The order states that violations will invite punitive action under the relevant provisions of law.
The order has been circulated to the concerned administrative and police authorities for information, implementation and enforcement. [KNT]
