Morung Express News
Dimapur| February 6
Ahead of the state assembly election, a disturbing trend is on the rise- gun politics. Though on the surface the election looks much like any democratic campaign, the use of guns to intimidate rival supporters is gradually increasing in the State. These guns are mostly illegal and country made, it is being reported.
According to sources, many political strongmen are in possession of guns which are being carried around freely. These guns are not necessarily licensed ones. Sources informed that youths in some constituencies are demanding guns from the candidates for “protection.” Although most people reportedly claim to be carrying guns around for “self-protection,” using guns to influence elections is a growing phenomenon in the State. “It is not the underground cadre we are talking about here. It is the public who is in possession of the guns now,” sources informed.
Elections in Nagaland have become more violent over the years and gun related violence has shot up. But while physical assault, arson and mob violence is quite common during election, the open use of guns is a new trend. Many people now own guns which is making the situation quite dangerous for the public in some areas. Sources reported that some politicians are handing out guns to youths to carry out “night duty.” Even in the past there have been reports of gunshots being fired resulting in deaths and injuries in some constituencies.
These days country made guns are readily available in the open market with Dimapur being the hub. While the more sophisticated ones like the Chinese, Russian and Burmese made guns are smuggled from other states like Bihar and Assam, the local made guns are bought from district like Kiphire, Mon and Tuensang. These guns come for as cheap as Rs. 5,000 and shoot up to Rs. 35,000 depending on the quality. Bullets are also available for as little as Rs. 150.
According to police sources, these local made guns are not “illegal” per se as these gunsmiths have been making them as a craft. They are generally used for hunting, during festivals and also gifted to dignitaries during functions. However, the demand for guns in the market for unlawful purposes brings fresh attention on the need to curb the sale these weapons.
