Bengaluru, March 10 (NationPress) Former Home Minister and BJP MLA Araga Jnanendra has called on the Karnataka government to issue gun licenses to individuals residing in the Malnad region, highlighting an alarming increase in theft and robbery incidents in rural communities.

During the Assembly's Question and Answer session, Jnanendra raised concerns about the vulnerability of residents living in isolated homes surrounded by farms and plantations. He claimed that many are facing criminal threats and alleged police inaction concerning gun license applications.

“People in solitary homes amid agricultural land are increasingly anxious due to the surge in theft incidents,” he stated.

Jnanendra referenced crime statistics from Thirthahalli and Shivamogga over the last three years, pointing out that while data on theft cases has been documented, there has been a lack of convictions.

“The Malnad area has never experienced such a high rate of thefts previously. Historically, locals were armed and could effectively deter criminal activities,” he remarked.

He indicated that farmers who previously held firearms for self-defense are now being denied licenses by the authorities.

“Our aim is not to misuse firearms. Not a single bird has been harmed. During the colonial era, many in our taluk owned guns. Now, permissions are being denied,” he added.

Jnanendra urged the government to renew existing licenses and issue new ones for farmers, asserting that theft incidents have escalated significantly.

“Criminals have their informants. Some have been apprehended in Mumbai and Karwar, but only a few cases have been resolved,” he noted.

The MLA criticized the police for acting only under pressure and raised concerns about the safety of individuals in isolated residences.

“Robberies have begun to increase. Women are living in fear. Despite a shortage of officers, police personnel from the Malnad region are being reassigned for the chief minister's security during his visits to other districts,” he stated.

Jnanendra further alleged that highway vigilance teams are not performing effectively, citing instances of illegal sand transportation.

“I witnessed several loads of sand being transported illegally. When I alerted the squad, they failed to respond. This suggests potential collusion,” he claimed.

In response, Home Minister G. Parameshwara assured that the police are taking necessary measures and dismissed claims of negligence.

He mentioned that the Shivamogga district is equipped with 38 police stations, including six in Jnanendra's constituency, and emphasized that he does not find the crime statistics alarming.

“We will take all necessary actions. Surveillance infrastructure has been enhanced, with approximately 30,000 CCTVs installed in the district,” he explained.

“There are 25 highway patrol units working in the area, and it’s incorrect to say that the police are inactive,” he added.

Jnanendra contended that his request for easier access to gun licenses was not adequately addressed, stressing that firearm possession has been a longstanding custom in the Malnad region.

Regarding gun licenses, Parameshwara clarified that there is a defined process for application, which includes obtaining a No Objection Certificate from the police, followed by verification by the Deputy Commissioner concerning age, fitness, and criminal history.

“The police will not provide a negative recommendation unless the applicant has a criminal record,” he stated.

Additionally, BJP MLA Channabasappa Tunga expressed concerns about a “chaddi gang” operating in the area, highlighting an increase in cattle theft.