Bihar Government Responds to Threats Against Local Leaders with Gun License Initiative

In light of increasing violence and security concerns, the Bihar government has approved the issuance of arms licenses to elected representatives of the state’s Panchayati Raj system. The decision, spearheaded by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, aims to protect Mukhiyas, Sarpanchs, and other local leaders who have been targeted in recent attacks. The government has instructed district officials to expedite the processing of license applications and to ensure rigorous verification procedures. This proactive step follows several high-profile incidents, including the murders of a Mukhiya and a deputy Mukhiya in different districts, along with multiple instances of threats and attacks across various regions. The initiative is seen as a response to growing concerns among panchayat representatives, who have previously sought increased security from state authorities. Additionally, the government has introduced other measures, such as increased allowances for panchayat members and the construction of marriage halls in each panchayat, as part of a broader effort to gain favor with local leaders ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.