Haryana rights panel seeks security overhaul after 32 firearms vanish from police storage

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has initiated proceedings to strengthen security protocols at police storage facilities across the state after 32 firearms went missing from a police storeroom. The commission's action was triggered by a complaint filed on July 16 by Panchkula resident and advocate Gitanjali, who raised concerns about the lax security measures that allowed the substantial theft to occur undetected.

The theft represents a significant breach of security and raises questions about the handling of sensitive weaponry within police custody. The missing firearms pose potential risks if they enter the illegal arms market, a persistent concern for law enforcement agencies across northern India.

In response to the commission's intervention, authorities have been directed to conduct a thorough audit of storage facilities, review surveillance systems, and assess personnel oversight mechanisms at police armories and storerooms. The review is expected to identify gaps in current security procedures and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents.

The commission's directive underscores the need for stringent accountability and modernized security infrastructure at police installations handling weapons and sensitive materials. State police officials are likely to be questioned about lapses in the inventory management system that delayed the discovery of the missing firearms.