In light of the upcoming local self-government elections in 2026, the Rajkot City Police Commissionerate has issued strict directives to maintain law and order. Police Commissioner Brajesh Kumar Jha has ordered all arms license holders in areas where the model code of conduct is in effect to surrender their weapons to the respective police stations.
This order pertains to the general elections for 15 municipal corporations, 84 municipalities, 34 district panchayats, and 260 taluka panchayats, as well as by-elections for 13 vacant seats in 11 municipal corporations. The police have instructed all relevant police stations to ensure the collection of weapons from license holders in their areas and to provide this information to the commissionerate. The police commissionerate has also imposed a complete ban on the public display and use of licensed weapons until the election process is completed.
This order applies to all license holders, regardless of whether their license was issued by Rajkot or another authority. Additionally, a temporary halt has been placed on the buying and selling of weapons. However, weapons surrendered to the respective police stations will be returned without any additional orders after the election process concludes on April 30, 2026.
Some categories are exempt from this order, including government and semi-government institutions, banks, corporations, gunmen of recognized security agencies, personnel engaged in the security of ATMs and currency chests, and state, national, or international level shooters. However, individual license holders will not benefit from this exemption. Security guards will be required to carry a certificate issued by the bank manager, detailing their identity and appointment.
The relevant bank management must inform the police station about such employees, which will be verified by the police. Additionally, officials and employees of the central and state governments who are legally permitted to carry weapons and are on election duty will be exempt from this order.
Individuals with special permissions will also be granted exemptions. The police administration has made it clear that strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the order.
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