Prayagraj, May 22 -- The Allahabad High Court on Friday directed the government to reconsider its policy on granting arms licenses to individuals with criminal backgrounds.

The Court observed that, prima facie, weapons are tools used to display power and create an illusion of security, which often disturbs social harmony and instils fear and insecurity among people in society.

The Court remarked that carrying guns openly in the name of "self-defence"--which becomes an instrument of intimidation--promotes fear rather than genuine security. A society where armed individuals display dominance and exert influence through threats does not become freer or more peaceful; rather, it diminishes public trust, weakens the sense of security, and di...