World · India Bureau
Chhattisgarh police chief faces scrutiny over AK-47 display at religious ceremony
Chhattisgarh police have issued a show-cause notice to Rajnandgaon superintendent of police Ankita Sharma following the circulation of a video showing her firing an automatic weapon during a Dussehra Shastra Puja ritual.
LSN India ·
The Chhattisgarh Police Department has initiated formal proceedings against Rajnandgaon SP Ankita Sharma after a video documenting her discharge of an AK-47 rifle during the annual Dussehra Shastra Puja celebration circulated widely on social media platforms.
The show-cause notice marks an official response to the incident, which occurred during the religious ceremony traditionally held to bless weapons. The video's viral spread prompted departmental authorities to seek clarification from Sharma regarding the circumstances of the firearms demonstration at the public event.
Shatra Puja, an integral part of Dussehra celebrations in several regions, involves ritual sanctification of weapons. However, the public discharge of military-grade firearms during such ceremonies has drawn scrutiny from police administration regarding protocol adherence and safety procedures.
The notice seeks Sharma's explanation on the matter as authorities review whether standard operational guidelines were followed during the event. The incident underscores ongoing discussions about appropriate conduct for senior law enforcement officials during public appearances and religious observances.