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UP police to get chilli bombs for mob control
UP Police have decided to spare the rod, but teach mobs blocking streets, highways and demonstrating near government offices a fiery lesson by peppering them with chilli bombs.
UP Police have decided to spare the rod, but teach mobs blocking streets, highways and demonstrating near government offices a fiery lesson by peppering them with chilli bombs.
The government’s mob-control plan, while minimising injuries, is sure to be a tearjerker. “Rs. 20 crore has been earmarked for purchasing non-lethal weapons such as chilli bombs to ensure that minimum physical harm is inflicted on protesters and others,” principal secretary (home) RM Srivastava told a press conference on Thursday.
He said regular protests, for water or power supply, and even employees’ demonstrations, had left common people a harassed lot. “Instead of ordering baton charge or firing, police would use mirchi (chilli) bomb to disperse the mob.”
Director general of police AC Sharma told the press conference, “Maintaining law and order has emerged as a major challenge for the police. Hardcore criminals would be dealt with bullets and protesters with mirchi bombs.”
The DGP said the chilli bombs would not inflict long-term damage, but cause intense burning in the eyes and itching for a few hours.
Those unlucky enough to be mirchi-bombed will not be able to open their eyes immediately and the itch will subside after multiple washes.
He said once police acquired the chilli bombs, protesters would “think twice” before causing disruptions at public places.
