HC sets aside challenge to Centre’s continuation till 2029 of British-era gun licence exemption to Kodavas
BENGALURU:
Kodavas can keep their firearms, thanks to an order of the Karnataka High Court which upholds the Arms Act exemption granted to ‘every person of Coorg by race and Jumma tenure landholders in Coorg (Kodagu district)’.
The HC order was in response to a petition challenging a 2019 notification of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs granting the exemption under the Indian Arms Act, 1959.
Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, who appeared for respondents Kodava Samaj of Bengaluru and Kodava Muslim Association, on Wednesday confirmed the decision of the Karnataka High Court.
Congratulations to all from Coorg. Karnataka High Court upholds the Arms Act exemption granted to Kodavas and Jamma tenure holders in Coorg.
— Sajan Poovayya (@poovayya) September 22, 2021
Colonial nod to ‘martial race’
The Centre had decided to continue the British-era exemption given to Kodavas and Jumma landholders in Kodagu from obtaining a licence for firearms such as pistols, revolvers and double-barrelled shotguns. The exemption has been given for 10 years, till 2029.
The special privilege to own firearms without a licence was granted by the British rulers to the Kodavas in recognition of their martial background. Kodavas continue to observe rituals revolving around weapons like guns and swords.
