Speaking at the valedictory of the 11th All India Police Rifle and Revolver/Pistol Shooting Competition here she said guns were an integral part of police equipment for centuries. However, decades ago, the use of weapons by police was restricted to either drill or for dispersal of stone-throwing mobs.
Accuracy of firing was not imperative. But, the scenario changed and mobsters started using AK-47 rifles. “We cannot let the police be outgunned and overwhelmed. The recent memory of a gunman at Chatrapathi Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai firing indiscriminately with an AK-47 rifle, while a brave constable trying to return fire with a .303 rifle is still green, unable to make any impact, he (the constable) finally flings a chair at the gunman,” she recalled.
Ms. Jayalalithaa said when she became the Chief Minister in 1991, the State police did not have the weaponry to combat militancy/terrorism. “Our policemen carried muskets and .303 rifles of Second World War vintage. These were weapons fit only to be displayed in a museum as exhibits. On the other hand, the militants possessed ultra-modern and sophisticated fire-arms for which our police had no answer.” On her request the Centre then sanctioned some funds and the State also made substantial contribution for procuring modern weapons, communication gadgets and vehicles. While acquisition of sophisticated weapons was important, the ability to handle them was equally essential.
Ms. Jayalalithaa said using a firearm, especially a sophisticated one, needed skills which could be cultivated only through constant practice and hard work. It was in this context that the shooting competition assumed significance. “It is not a mere sporting event where the tussle is for medals, trophies or personal glory. It is a preparation to equip the police to face hard reality when confronted with terrorism.”
The Chief Minister proposed to sanction funds for procuring rifles or pistols of .177 or .22 bore to enable police personnel to participate in All India Police Sports Shooting Championship.
Director General of Police K. Ramanujam said a total of 30 teams, including 8 representing central police organisations such as the Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force and Indo-Tibetan Border Police, took part in the competitions that commenced at the Othivakkam firing range on September 3.
Special Director (Intelligence Bureau) B.C. Nayak said a 26-member team represented India at the international firing competition held in New York between August 26 and September 5 and bagged 54 medals, including 32 gold. Additional Director General of Police (Operations) N. Tamil Selvan said the overall championship in Rifle, Revolver/Pistol and Carbine Shooting competition was bagged by the CRPF.
Tamil Nadu Police was the winner of the Overall Championship (among the States) in the Rifle, Revolver/Pistol and Carbine Shooting competition.
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