Nitish Kumar’s Government to Issue Gun Licenses to Bihar Panchayat Representatives Following Rising Violence

The Bihar government is taking measures to address escalating security threats faced by local representatives, particularly Mukhiyas and Sarpanchs. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s administration has authorized the issuance of arms licenses to members of the state’s Panchayati Raj institutions. This decision follows a surge in violent incidents targeting panchayat leaders, prompting the government to act. All district magistrates and police superintendents have been instructed to process the applications promptly, ensuring thorough verification. The cabinet approved the proposal during a recent meeting, with the Chief Minister emphasizing the urgency of the matter. The move comes amidst a backdrop of recent attacks, including the killings of a Mukhiya in Lakhisarai and a deputy Mukhiya in Gaya. These incidents, along with numerous threats and attempted assaults across various districts, have heightened concerns among the elected representatives. The government’s decision to issue licenses is viewed as part of a broader strategy to secure support from local leaders before the upcoming assembly elections. Furthermore, the government has also approved a significant budget for constructing marriage halls in each panchayat to support economically disadvantaged women.