(a) whether any regulation exists to govern or restrict the use of arms by private security agencies in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether such private security agencies have created `private armies` which can pose threat to the citizens; and
(d) if so, the steps taken by Government to control such private security agencies and ensure restriction on their functioning?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI KIREN RIJIJU)
(a) to (d): Yes, Madam. In order to regulate the working of the private security agencies, the Central Government has enacted the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 and has notified the Private Security Agencies Central Model Rules, 2006. As per the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005, private security guard means a person providing private security with or without arms to another person or property or both and includes a supervisor. However, acquisition and carrying of fire arms in the country by a person or agency is governed by the provisions of the Arms Act, 1959 and rules made thereunder.