Guwahati's Rising Crime Concerns Prompt Citizens to Arm Themselves

A Shift in Public Sentiment
Despite a reported decline in Assam's overall crime rate—from 385.5 in 2019 to 127 this year—Guwahati is experiencing a different reality.
The capital city is witnessing a notable change as residents grow increasingly anxious about various crimes, including murder, robbery, chain-snatching, and assaults, leading many to take their safety into their own hands.
Citizens Taking Safety Measures
Many individuals in Guwahati are now equipping themselves with pepper sprays, batons, knives, and, in some alarming cases, illegal firearms, claiming they carry these items for self-defense rather than aggression.
In Panbazar, a bustling commercial area, a shopkeeper named Rakesh Deka, 34, shared his experience: "I close my shop at 9 pm and walk to my car. Just last month, a friend was mugged nearby. I need to protect myself; the police can't be everywhere."
This sentiment is echoed by the youth, such as college student Ankita Das from Maligaon, who stated, "I don’t blame the police, but I need to feel secure when walking home late. I always have pepper spray in my bag."
Another young man from Zoo Road mentioned he carries a small knife or knuckle duster in his backpack, saying, "I never thought I’d need this, but now it feels essential. It’s about survival."
Public Perception vs. Institutional Assurance
This trend highlights a significant disconnect between public perception and the assurances provided by institutions. As more civilians arm themselves, concerns about potential escalations in violence grow.
Experts caution that without clear legal guidelines, public education, and self-restraint, the presence of these weapons could exacerbate rather than alleviate tense situations.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Madhurima Bhattacharya noted, "This reflects collective trauma and a loss of faith in institutional systems. When people feel unsafe repeatedly—due to news, personal experiences, or social media—they internalize a constant sense of danger."
She added, "Even a city with a good law and order situation can feel emotionally insecure if fear spreads unchecked."
Government Response and Community Concerns
Recently, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a cabinet decision to issue arms licenses to indigenous citizens in vulnerable areas, aiming to empower local communities amid rising security concerns.
This decision has sparked a debate about whether promoting self-defense could inadvertently lead to increased violence.
Under Indian law, citizens can possess certain self-defense tools like pepper spray, but carrying firearms without a valid license is illegal under the Arms Act.
While the desire for personal safety is valid, many express alarm over the emergence of a vigilante mentality.
Law Enforcement's Perspective
A senior officer from Paltan Bazar Police Station remarked, "Possessing items like knives or sticks isn’t inherently criminal; it depends on their use. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to wield that power responsibly."
He emphasized that these choices are influenced by upbringing and societal values, urging people to avoid normalizing reactionary behavior.
Another officer from Dispur reiterated, "We understand the need for safety, but carrying weapons isn’t the solution. Awareness, presence of mind, and trust in law enforcement are what truly matter."
Community Skepticism and the Path Forward
Despite reassurances from law enforcement, skepticism remains among residents. Kanti Kalita, a mother from Zoo Road, expressed concern, stating, "How quickly can the police really respond? Until help arrives, we’re on our own."
This perceived gap between state security and personal safety continues to widen.
Guwahati now finds itself at a critical juncture. As citizens strive to balance their safety with responsibility, and the state aims to maintain order without infringing on civil liberties, a collective commitment is essential—between the public, police, and policymakers—to restore trust and enhance community security.
Until such a commitment is realized, the streets of Guwahati will reflect a troubling paradox: citizens arming themselves against fear, only to become prisoners of it.