http://www.smh.com.au/world/guns-for-those-who-fire-blanks-20090219-8clm.html
:o :o :o :o
In this mornings Sydney Morning Herald
Guns for those who fire blanks
* Matt Wade in New Delhi
* February 20, 2009
IF YOU want a gun in Shivpuri, it helps to get the snip.
Manish Shrivastava, the administrative head of Shivpuri, a district in central India, has come up with a unique offer to boost the number of sterilisations in his jurisdiction: any man who has a vasectomy will have his gun licence application accelerated.
"There is a fetish for arms and arms licences in this area and at the same time the male vasectomy figures are dismally low," Manish Shrivastava told the Herald. "I have simply clubbed these two things together and got a very good response."
Last year there was a dramatic surge in demand at local "family planning camps" where sterilisations are performed. Patients could fill out gun licence applications while they waited.
"We have done about 150 male vasectomies in the district over the past year compared with an average of six or eight previously," Mr Shrivastava said.
For centuries, Shivpuri district has been notorious for its gangs of bandits, known locally as dacoits, and many locals feel safer if they have a weapon.
"Some people in villages are worried about their security, so they are very interested in arms," said Dr H.S. Sharma, the chief medical officer in Shivpuri district.
However, the scheme is embroiled in controversy because some of the newly sterile gun lovers say the promised licences have not been granted.
"I underwent the operation only for the gun licence," Lalit Gupta told the Hindustan Times. "The announcement appears to have been a trick."
Mr Gupta said he wanted the licence because he often has to travel to "dangerous places".
Mr Shrivastava admits there have been delays because police checks are mandatory for applicants. But he promises the licences will be issued to those who qualify.
"The goods will be delivered," he said.
this is my rifle this is my gun, this is for fighting this is for fun
sound off!!