In response to rising public concern over a viral social media post suggesting the issuance of gun licenses in Assam, particularly near interstate border areas, Nagaland Chief Secretary Dr. J Alam on May 30 assured citizens that the state government is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to safeguarding the interests of border residents.

The social media post, reportedly linked to a notification from the Assam government, sparked apprehension among communities living along the Nagaland-Assam border, fearing that the move could escalate tensions and lead to potential conflict.

Addressing the media at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Dimapur, Alam said the state government became aware of the issue on the morning of May 29. He said immediately upon receiving the information, he had contacted the his Assam counterpart and conveyed the concerns regarding possible ramifications on the interstate border.

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According to Alam, the Assam government has since issued a clarification asserting that the proposed gun license distribution will be limited to vulnerable areas and will not cover any locations along the Assam-Nagaland border. He said that they have categorically denied any intention to issue arms licenses in border regions, adding that the confusion appeared to stem from a reporting error.

While expressing satisfaction with Assam’s clarification, the top bureaucrat emphasized that the Nagaland government remains alert and assured that if any such development arises in the future that threatens the safety and security of the people, the state government would not hesitate to take up the matter directly with the Assam government.

Reaffirming the state’s commitment to peace, the chief secretary further assured that the state government will continue to prioritize stability and security in sensitive and historically tense border areas.