Chhattisgarh Police has issued a show-cause notice to Rajnandgaon Superintendent of Police IPS Ankita Sharma after a video showed her firing an AK-47 rifle during Dussehra celebrations. The incident took place on October 20 during the traditional Shastra Puja ceremony at the Police Lines. The video quickly went viral on social media and attracted widespread public attention. Police headquarters expressed concern over the criticism and said the incident had affected the dignity of the police force. Officials also questioned whether Sharma followed the required weapon-handling and safety procedures. The notice asks her to explain the circumstances surrounding the firing. The controversy has sparked a broader debate about firearm safety during religious and ceremonial events.
Senior Officials Await IPS Sharma’s Response
Rajnandgaon Range Inspector General of Police Ajay Yadav said he would examine Sharma’s response before taking the matter forward. He explained that he would record his observations and send them to police headquarters. Senior officials would then decide on further action according to the directions they issue. The department has focused on the importance of following established safety procedures while handling service weapons. The viral footage has also attracted criticism from retired police officers and former military personnel. Several experts have questioned whether firing a rifle forms a necessary part of Shastra Puja. They have stressed that police personnel must maintain professional standards during public ceremonies. Authorities will consider Sharma’s explanation before determining the next steps in the matter.
Sharma fired several rounds after the traditional weapon-worship ceremony on October 20. Shastra Puja honours weapons and symbolises respect for those used to protect society. However, retired IPS officer R. K. Vij told PTI that the ritual does not require firing firearms. He warned that such actions could create unnecessary risks and cause accidents. Another IPS officer, speaking anonymously, said Chhattisgarh police personnel traditionally use blank cartridges during the ceremony. The officer added that personnel do not use live ammunition for these occasions. However, firearm experts stress that blank firing also requires proper precautions and controlled surroundings. Critics have additionally warned that bullets fired into the air can fall back and seriously injure people.
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Former Army Officers Criticise Weapon Handling
Former Indian Army officer K. J. S. Dhillon criticised the weapon handling shown in the video. He raised concerns about the rifle’s direction, people standing in the background and the apparent lack of safety precautions. Dhillon also questioned the use of a service weapon for what he described as an unauthorised activity. Another social media user identifying himself as retired Colonel Deepak Kumar called the conduct reckless and unprofessional. However, some users defended Sharma and argued that criticism should remain fair and constructive. Former Major L. S. Choudhary acknowledged possible shortcomings in weapon handling but urged people not to dismiss Sharma’s professional record. Another user, Narendra Negi, argued that some criticism focused unnecessarily on her wearing a saree while firing the rifle.
The controversy widened after social media users shared videos showing other police personnel firing weapons during Shastra Puja. One video reportedly showed Additional Superintendent of Police Kirtan Rathore firing an AK-47. Other clips allegedly featured personnel from Raipur, Bilaspur, Raigarh, Durg, Kabirdham and Bastar districts. These videos have raised questions about firearm safety practices during police ceremonies across Chhattisgarh. Authorities may need to examine each incident separately before determining whether personnel violated any rules. The controversy has also highlighted the need for clear guidelines governing ceremonial firearm use. Police departments must ensure that traditional celebrations do not compromise public safety or professional standards. Officials will determine the next steps in Sharma’s case after reviewing her response and the relevant circumstances.