Morena (MP), Jan 09: Guns seem to have become a "fashion accessory" for women in this dacoit-hit district of
Madhya Pradesh, especially smaller weapons with sleek display becoming the choicest pick among them for self-defence.
"Demand for weapons has rose sharply in the last five
years. Around 59 new licenses in Bhind and 19 in Morena have been issued during this period," Deputy Inspector General of Police (Chambal) Arun Pratap Singh said here today.
Owning a gun has become a mark of respect in the valley
and women are not far behind, arms department sources said.
"Rifle does not match with the saris and it cannot be
carried around. I and several others need revolvers and have applied for the same," Rekha Tomar, an arms dealer told.
Several prominent women, including Panchayat president
Kamla Solanki, panchayat members Omwati Kashna and Ratna Rawat, take pride in owning and flashing the weapons around.
"I was born with rifles around. My father had taught me
to use one," claimed Solanki while Rawat said, "Dacoits and wild animals pose threat to our lives and we need these
weapons for our safety."
"Our record shows that over 21,000 persons have been
issued arms licences till date in the district and the demand
is evergrowing," Singh said.
However, he feels that the growing number of arms traders
pose a threat as weapons and ammunition find way to the
dacoits in the Chambal valley.
Thousands of applications for new licenses are still
pending at the collectorate, the department sources said.
Bureau Report
