Punjab: It is difficult for the police to collect arms before the elections

Punjab: Ahead of the panchayat elections in the state on October 15, tensions are running high with violent incidents being reported in various districts. With deep political rivalries running rampant in villages, the state police have been tasked with the onerous task of getting over 3.5 lakh licensed weapons deposited as well as maintaining law and order. Most of these weapons are in rural areas, where political divisions between the Congress, Akali Dal and the newly-emerged AAP have fuelled tensions. Villagers are reluctant to give up their weapons for fear of unarmed retaliation from rival factions. “What if I deposit my weapons and walk around unarmed when my rivals attack?” asked a staunch Akali supporter from Bhawanigarh. This apprehension stems from bitter rivalries in villages dating back generations, with the police often unable to provide security after elections. A senior police officer acknowledged the challenge of getting all the weapons deposited, especially with the increased availability of country-made firearms that cost less than Rs 15,000. Recent firing incidents in Ferozepur, Tarn Taran and Moga have further fuelled fears of violence. Authorities are working to secure licensed arms, but illegal weapons remain a major concern. According to data with the Punjab Police, over 3.5 lakh arms licences have been issued in the state, of which 60 per cent belong to villagers. Despite all efforts, the police have only 10 days left to complete the process of depositing these weapons before polling day. A DSP from Ferozepur admitted that it is difficult to convince villagers to hand over arms, especially when political rivalries run deep. The political scenario in Punjab’s villages has further complicated matters. Apart from the long-standing Congress-Akali rivalry, the emergence of the AAP has added a third faction, which has contributed to the rise in violence. A political analyst said all major parties – the Congress, the AAP and the Akali Dal – are responsible for the situation, citing a history of violence and retaliation. As tensions rise, fears of violence grow, and state law enforcement agencies are under pressure to prevent further bloodshed with panchayat elections approaching.