India
HHRC Orders Statewide Police Storeroom Security Review After 32 Firearms Theft
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has directed the director general of police (DGP) to conduct a statewide review of security arrangements at police station storerooms following the theft of 32 licensed firearms from the storeroom of Sector 8 police station in Faridabad. The order, issued on 2 November 2026 by Commission member Deep Bhatia, requires the DGP to examine existing arrangements for the safe custody of licensed firearms, access controls at police storerooms and supervisory mechanisms across the state. A comprehensive action‑taken report is to be submitted by 11 January 2027.
The matter was brought to the Commission by a complaint filed on 16 July 2026 by advocate Gitanjali of Panchkula. The complaint noted that owners had deposited 32 licensed firearms at Sector 8 police station in January, trusting the police to safeguard them. The theft on 9 May raised concerns about security lapses and police supervision.
A report from the Faridabad deputy commissioner of police (DCP) dated 9 October stated that Monu, an apprentice undergoing training at the station in April 2026, was maintaining the daily diary and performing duties related to the police storeroom. Monu became familiar with the records and articles kept there. During the investigation, enforcement sub‑inspector Bijender raised suspicion of Monu’s involvement. Monu and 28 other accused persons were arrested in April. Police informed the Commission that all 32 missing firearms had been recovered and the challan in the case was presented before the court on 6 August 2026.
The Commission highlighted that allowing an apprentice, who was not a regular police department employee, access to the storeroom raised serious questions about existing security arrangements and supervisory mechanisms. It also warned that the theft of a large number of civilian firearms from a police station, especially during elections and enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, could undermine public confidence in the police and pose a threat to public safety.
The complaint raised concerns under Article 21 of the Constitution and Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which recognise the right to life, liberty and security of person. It pointed out that if the stolen weapons were used in criminal activities, their legitimate owners could face mental distress, fear and unnecessary legal complications despite having followed the law.
Bhatia directed the DGP to ensure that apprentices, trainees and other non‑regular personnel are not given unauthorised access to licensed firearms belonging to civilians or other sensitive articles kept in police storerooms. The Commission also instructed the police department to issue necessary instructions to all police stations regarding the proper custody of firearms, restricted access, adherence to security protocols and effective supervisory mechanisms.
Dr Puneet Arora, assistant registrar of the Commission, said the DGP had also been asked to examine the incident from the perspective of systemic and supervisory failures and take corrective and preventive measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur. The DGP will submit a detailed action‑taken report outlining the statewide review, security measures adopted and instructions issued to police stations. The matter has been adjourned to 11 January 2027 for further consideration at the Commission’s camp court at the New PWD Rest House (B&R), Gurugram.