Hry police to use "less lethal" weapons to counter violence

Haryana Police today said they will be using "less lethal" ammunition like plastic pellets and rubber bullets to counter protests and violence in the state.
The move comes in the wake of Jat quota stir which claimed the lives of thirty people and caused massive damage to property.
"We are going to use a range of less lethal ammunition in violent situations, including protests where violence breaks out. These will be used in future in all 21 districts wherever the need is felt depending on the situation on the ground," Haryana ADGP (Law and Order) Mohd Akil said.
He said the "less lethal" ammunition which will be used includes plastic pellets and rubber bullets.

Pump-action gun will also be used, which will spray pellets, only to leave a person in mild shock and possibly minor injury, he said.
Besides, Oleoresin (a chilli extract) grenades or chilli grenades will also be used. They are specially designed to disperse protesting mob by causing irritation to their eyes, Akil said.

Apart from adopting traditional methods to control violent or rioting mob, including lathicharge, water cannons and use of tear gas shells, these new methods have been devised to effectively tackle the situation, he said.
To keep an eye on the protesters during agitations, the police will also use drone cameras, he said.

"The cameras will keep an eye and capture the actual scene and anybody indulging in violence or behind it can be easily identified," the officer said.
A fresh phase of Jat quota agitation going on in several parts of the state, entered its fifth day today.
The state has so far remained peaceful with no reports of violence, he said.