A video of Chhattisgarh IPS officer Ankita Sharma firing an AK-47 during Dussehra has sparked debate over safety protocols and weapon handling. The incident has drawn criticism from ex-military personnel.
Key Points
- Incident Details: IPS officer Ankita Sharma fired an AK-47 during a Dussehra ritual in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh.
- Safety Concerns: Critics highlighted dangerous handling of a loaded weapon, lack of protective gear, and risk to bystanders.
- Tradition vs. Practice: Experts say the ritual involves weapon worship, not firing.
- Official Response: Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister said the government would investigate the incident.
IPS Officer’s AK-47 Firing During Dussehra Ritual Sparks Debate
RAJNANDGAON: A video of Chhattisgarh IPS officer Ankita Sharma firing an AK-47 during Dussehra celebrations has sparked a heated debate over safety protocols and weapon handling. The incident, which took place in Rajnandgaon, quickly went viral online, with social media users expressing both admiration and criticism. In the video, Sharma is seen loading the rifle, pointing it in open air, firing several rounds without protective gear, and then placing it on a table with other rifles.
Criticism From Ex-Military Personnel
Former Indian Army officer K J S Dhillon strongly criticized Sharma’s actions, highlighting the ‘dangerously incorrect handling of a loaded weapon’ and noting that all aspects of safety protocols were violated. He pointed out that the rifle was pointed in multiple directions, causing fear among people in the background. Dhillon also emphasized that firing a service weapon for an unauthorized act, while dressed in non-authorised attire, was inappropriate.
Tradition vs. Safety Concerns
The Vijayadashami ritual, known as Shastra Puja, traditionally involves worshipping weapons as symbols of duty and protection. However, experts argue that firing live ammunition during such rituals poses significant risks. Retired IPS officer R K Vij stated that the tradition does not involve firing weapons and that such actions should be avoided to prevent accidents. An anonymous IPS officer noted that blank rounds are typically used in such ceremonies, not live ammunition.
Official Response and Ongoing Debate
Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister told PTI that the government would take cognizance of the incident. The debate highlights a broader discussion about balancing cultural traditions with modern safety standards, particularly in contexts involving weapons.
