MP Chowta writes to DGP on farmers difficulties in renewing gun licences

Mangaluru: MP Capt Brijesh Chowta has urged the DGP and the district administration to immediately address the difficulties being faced by farmers in Dakshina Kannada in renewing gun licences used for protecting crops from wild animal attacks.

In a letter addressed to the authorities, the MP expressed concern that applications for renewal of legally obtained gun licences are being rejected on the grounds of stringent regulations. This has created serious problems for farmers, particularly those living near forest areas, who rely on licensed firearms to safeguard their crops from wildlife.

He pointed out that crop-protection gun licences were traditionally renewed on a regular basis. However, the recent obstacles in the renewal process have left farmers vulnerable and helpless. The MP urged the authorities to respond immediately and provide a practical solution to the issue.

Capt Chowta stated that farmers in the region have depended on licensed firearms for decades to protect their crops from wild animals. He noted that several affected farmers had brought to his attention that their renewal applications were being rejected on the grounds that no incidents of wildlife intrusion or crop damage had been reported on their agricultural lands during the past year.

However, he argued that the very presence of a licensed firearm acts as a deterrent, preventing wild animals from entering farmlands. Wildlife attacks are unpredictable and cannot be anticipated in advance. In such circumstances, farmers without valid gun licences would be left helpless, risking the destruction of their crops and livelihoods.

The MP further highlighted that law-abiding farmers with no criminal background possess firearms solely for self-protection and crop protection. Therefore, he urged the district administration to reconsider and simplify the existing stringent norms, instead of imposing excessive restrictions on farmers.

He called upon the authorities to ensure that renewal applications submitted by eligible farmers who comply with all licence regulations are processed smoothly and without unnecessary hurdles.

Capt Chowta has also brought the matter to the attention of the inspector general of police (Western Range), Dakshina Kannada superintendent of police, and the Mangaluru City police commissioner, seeking their intervention in resolving what he described as a serious issue affecting the farming community.