Gun Politics in Pakistan

Gun politics in Pakistan refers to the wide ownership of firearms in Pakistan. The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees the right to keep and bear arms. The province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa permits the ownership of heavy weaponry including the use of rocket-propelled grenades, short, medium, and long-range rockets, anti-aircraft guns, mortars, etc. These heavy weapons may be made in Pakistan.

The people of the provinces of Punjab and Sindh view the bearing and use of arms as a constitutional right whereas the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan view it as part of their culture. Pakistan is also known for its indigenous gunsmith tradition. A notable center of gun manufacturing is the town of Darra Adam Khel, near Peshawar, historically known for its Lee Enfield .303 facsimiles. However, the town now produces a broader range of ordnance including AK-47's, mini-Kalashnikovs, and hand-held firearms, including the James Bond pen gun (see Khyber Pass Copy).

Other enduring customs and a strong culture of honor also promote the prevalence and importance of guns. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the Pashtun residents laud performances of strength and toughness, carrying a Kalashnikov or other gun is a sign of honour and respect. Similarly, much of mainstream Pakistani culture, including Balochi, Sindhi, Punjabi and Kashmiri cultures, is heavily influenced by guns, as evidenced by common practice of aerial firings on special occasions such as weddings. According to Michael Palin, 'For Pakistanis, a gun is a social necessity. Pathans carry guns the way Londoners carry umbrellas.' As such, the broader Pakistani social necessity of portable and displayable wealth takes on an intimidating form among male members of provincial society.