Chhattisgarh IPS Officer's AK-47 Firing Video Provokes Controversy

Raipur: A video featuring a woman Indian Police Service (IPS) officer discharging an AK-47 rifle into the air during a traditional weapon worship ceremony on Dussehra has become a focal point of public debate regarding safety and proper conduct in weapon handling. The event took place in Rajnandgaon district, Chhattisgarh, as part of the 'Shastra Puja' ceremony, a ritual that honours weapons used by police and the military.

The viral footage shows Superintendent of Police (SP) Ankita Sharma, clad in a saree, firing several rounds from the AK-47. In a subsequent video, Additional Superintendent of Police Kirtan Rathore was also observed firing an AK-47. This practice of discharging weapons post-ritual was reported in various districts, including Raipur, Bilaspur, and Bastar, raising concerns about public safety.

In response to the uproar generated by the video, Arun Sao, Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, stated that the government would assess the situation. The incident has elicited a mixed reaction on social media. While some support Sharma by suggesting she was adhering to tradition, others criticise her and other officers for what appears to be irresponsible handling of the firearm.

Retired IPS officer R K Vij expressed concerns, stating, "The tradition is primarily about weapon worship, not the act of firing. Such actions increase the risk of accidents and must be minimised." Speaking under anonymity, another IPS officer clarified that the Shastra Puja tradition generally permits firing blank rounds, also known as 'awazi kartoos', rather than live ammunition. However, he emphasised the dangers associated with bullets fired into the air, as they inevitably return to the ground and can cause injuries.

Concerns over safety were further echoed by former Indian Army officer K J S Dhillon, who took to social media to highlight the potential hazards involved. He remarked, "This is dangerously incorrect handling of a loaded weapon, which violates all safety protocols. The individuals in the background were visibly distressed, which highlights the irresponsibility of the act. Such conduct can lead to serious injuries or fatalities."

Criticism has continued, with social media users labelling the act as unprofessional. Colonel Deepak Kumar, an Army veteran, called the incident reckless, questioning Sharma's handling of the firearm after firing. While many voiced concerns, some individuals defended her as a well-trained officer. Supporters argued that her professional conduct should not be overshadowed by a single incident involving the weapon.

Echoing the sentiment, a social media user using the name 'Former Major L S Choudhary' acknowledged the handling mistakes but insisted these should be corrected without discrediting her overall service. Another user, Narendra Negi, remarked that Sharma was a trained IPS officer. He noted that criticism of her attire, specifically her saree during the acts, also played a role in the backlash she received.

The incident underscores ongoing debates about the traditions of weapon worship in India, especially regarding safety measures and the responsibilities of uniformed officers during ceremonial events. Discussions are now emerging about potential changes to protocols around such practices to ensure public safety while respecting cultural traditions.