In a move aimed at strengthening public safety, particularly for women, the Himachal Pradesh Commission for Women has urged the state police to impose a ban on carrying weapons during religious processions across the state.
Commission chairperson Vidya Negi has written to Director General of Police Ashok Tewari, expressing serious concern over the risks posed by the display and use of weapons during such gatherings. Her appeal comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Kulgaon village of Shimla district, where a 26-year-old woman lost her life after being struck by a bullet during a religious ceremony.
In her communication, Negi highlighted that the practice of carrying weapons in processions has been observed in various parts of Himachal Pradesh and poses a significant threat to public peace. Referring specifically to the Rohru incident, she noted that such practices increase the likelihood of accidents and violent outcomes, endangering participants and bystanders alike.
She has called for immediate and concrete measures, urging the police to issue clear directions to district authorities and law enforcement agencies to strictly prohibit weapons in religious gatherings. Stressing the need to safeguard vulnerable groups, especially women, Negi also recommended enhanced monitoring and preventive strategies to avoid any recurrence of such incidents.
The April 26 incident, which claimed the life of Ritika, occurred during a consecration ceremony where she was dancing among a large crowd when a celebratory gunshot turned fatal. The incident sparked widespread outrage, prompting swift police action, including the arrest of two accused and seizure of the weapon involved. Subsequently, the Shimla district administration imposed a ban on carrying weapons at religious and social events.
