Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched probe begins into arms licence scam

[Hindustani78]

Special Correspondent
NEW DELHI, October 18, 2018 00:42 IST
Updated: October 18, 2018 00:42 IST

The CBI headquarters in New Delhi. File | Photo Credit: The Hindu


The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a probe into a massive scam in illegal issuance and renewal of arms licences under various Deputy Commissioners , particularly from 2012 to 2016, on forged documents. It is alleged that 4.29 lakh licences were either issued or renewed in the State over the past decade.

The issue came to light during probe by the Rajasthan Police’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in 2017, following which the Governor referred the matter in August for Central Bureau of Investigation probe.

Accordingly, the Central Bureau of Investigation has registered two FIRs. “The cases pertain to alleged irregularities in issuance and renewal of arms licences by the then Deputy Commissioners of various districts, particularly in lieu of monetary considerations,” said an official.

The Home Department alleged that thousands of arms licences were given from 2012 to 2016, which was a matter of grave concern as the Indian Nation was already faced with several internal security challenges.

As alleged, the officials brazenly flouted the rules and norms in doing so. Most of the arms licences were issued to those residing outside the State. No records of such permits were allegedly maintained.

Rajasthan’s ATS had arrested more than 50 people for alleged role in illegal issuance and renewal of arms licences. Over 3,000 permits had been given purportedly in the name of Army personnel. The squad had also seized a large number of firearms and licences.