No objection certificate for issuance of arms licence
Querist :
Anonymous
(Querist) 05 May 2026
This query is : Resolved
I AM CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE WORKING AS A PERMANENT EMPLOYEE. I WANTED TO GET ARMS LICENCE FOR SELF DEFENCE. HOWEVER, MY HOD IS NOT KEEN TO ISSUE ME NOC FOR THE SAME FOR WANT OF SOME LEGAL BACKING FOR HIM TO ISSUE THE NOC. HOWEVER, STATE POLICE REQUIRE THE NOC FROM THE HOD/EMPLOYER. IS THERE ANY PROVISION SO THAT I MAY SUBMIT TO MY HOD FOR ISSUANCE OF NOC?
T. Kalaiselvan, Advocate
(Expert) 05 May 2026
There Yes, there are provisions requiring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Central Government employees applying for an arms license to the state police. The requirement stems from the need for the licensing authority to confirm that the employee is gainfully employed and that there are no disciplinary proceedings or adverse reports against them.
While the Arms Act 1959 does not specifically state an NOC is mandatory, the Arms Rules, 2016 (which govern the process) require applicants to furnish comprehensive details. For government employees, this includes verification of credentials and "genuine requirement".
Almost all state police, such as the Delhi Police Licensing Unit, specifically list "NOC from department" as a mandatory document for Government Servants/PSU employees.
A standardized format for the "NOC from Department" exists, which states: "This department has no objection if an arm license is granted to him." This implies the employer's consent is necessary
You may submit a formal application and present the official format of the NOC to show that this is a standard administrative procedure, not a special favor.
You can state that Under Section 13(3)(a)(i) of the Arms Act, a citizen can obtain a license for a smooth-bore gun for self-protection. The NOC confirms you are a responsible employee.
There is no specific bar in the CCS (Conduct) Rules 1964 against owning a firearm for personal protection, provided it is lawfully acquired and licensed.
Dr. J C Vashista
(Expert) 06 May 2026
There is no provision / requirement of NOC of HOD for issuance of Arms Licence and/or holding fire arm(s) which is governed by Arms Act,1959 .
P. Venu
(Expert) 14 May 2026
Why self-defence? What is the potential threat you are facing?
