India, Jan. 26 -- At a time when random distribution of gun licences is at the centre of debate after such cases came to notice in the Beed district of Maharashtra, Pune city police said they have cancelled 111 firearm licences in 2024. This marks the first instance of firearm cancellations since 2019, highlighting a renewed focus on addressing concerns over gun-related incidents.

In a sharp decline, only 65 arm licences were issued in 2024, compared to 186 in 2023 and 279 in 2022.

According to data shared during the annual press conference held by Pune city police on Thursday notices were also issued to 200 licence holders. These individuals were asked to provide justifications for retaining their licences, failing which they faced can...