Sridhar Shetty Bailuguthu, the district president of Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS) and Hasiru Sene, criticized the mandate for depositing licensed firearms during elections, labeling it as ‘meaningless.’
Protest Against Mandatory Firearms Deposit
Shetty highlighted that the directive from the Election Commission of India (ECI) requiring firearm owners to deposit their weapons ahead of the Lok Sabha election is unjustified. He emphasized that these firearms are essential for protecting farms from wild animals and that depositing them undermines the safety of farmers’ livelihoods.
Alternative Measures Proposed
In response to the firearms deposit requirement, Shetty announced plans to launch a campaign urging farmers to utilize the Emergency Response Support System by dialing 112 in case of animal attacks on their farms. The campaign will carry the tagline ‘we will deposit firearms, appoint police to protect crops.’
Criticism of Firearms Deposit Process
Shetty criticized the process of depositing firearms during elections, noting that the weapons are often returned damaged after three months. He highlighted that there have been no reported incidents of farmers using firearms during elections, rendering the requirement unnecessary.
Legal Action Planned
The Sangha has decided to challenge the mandatory firearms deposit in court, aiming to overturn the directive.
Demand for Compensation
Shetty demanded that the district administration cover the medical expenses of Rathnakar Suvarna, a victim of a wild boar attack in Agari, Savanoor, due to the lack of firearms for protection.
Statistics on Licensed Firearms
According to Shetty, there are approximately 1700 licensed firearms within the Mangaluru City Police commissionerate limits and around 9000 licensed firearms in DK police limits.
