Collecting arms before poll tough task for police
Ahead of the October 15 panchayat poll in the state, tensions are escalating due to violent incidents across various districts. With deep-rooted political rivalries in villages, the state police are tasked with the difficult job of ensuring over 3.5 lakh licensed weapons are deposited, while also managing law and order.
The majority of these arms are in rural areas, where political divides between the Congress, Akali Dal, and the newly emergent AAP have intensified tensions.
Villagers are reluctant to part with their weapons, citing fears of unarmed retaliation from rival factions. “What if I deposit my weapons and roam unarmed while my rivals attack?” questioned a staunch Akali supporter from Bhawanigarh. This apprehension stems from generations of bitter village rivalries, with police often unable to provide protection after the elections.
A senior police officer acknowledged the challenge of getting all weapons deposited, particularly with growing availability of country-made firearms, priced as low as Rs 15,000. Recent firing incidents in Ferozepur, Tarn Taran and Moga have only heightened fears of violence. While authorities are working to secure licensed weapons, illegal arms remain a significant concern.
The Punjab Police have data showing over 3.5 lakh arms licences issued in the state, with 60 per cent belonging to villagers. Despite efforts, only 10 days remain for the police to complete the process of collecting these weapons before polling day. A DSP from Ferozepur admitted the difficulty of convincing villagers to surrender arms, especially when political rivalries run deep.
The political landscape in Punjab’s villages has further complicated matters. In addition to the long-standing Congress-Akali rivalry, the emergence of AAP has added a third faction, contributing to increased violence. A political analyst noted that all major parties— the Congress, AAP, and Akali Dal—are responsible for the situation, citing a history of violence and vengeance.
As tensions rise, the fear of violence looms large, and the state’s law enforcement agencies are under pressure to prevent further bloodshed as the panchayat elections approach.
