Parvinder Jhoota Murder Case: Ashwani Had Five Criminal Cases Against Him- How Was He Issued an Arms Licence?
Serious Allegations Against the District Administration
Babushahi Bureau
Mansa, October 15, 2026: A major revelation has emerged in the murder case of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhoota, raising serious questions about the issuance of an arms licence to the accused, Ashwani Kumar, despite five police cases reportedly registered against him. Three of these cases were related to violations of orders issued by the District Magistrate. However, the administration allegedly overlooked these cases while granting him the licence.
According to the information available, the arms licence was issued to Ashwani Kumar by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mansa, on August 21, 2024, based on a recommendation made by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Mansa, on August 9, 2024. The licence was valid until 2029.
Using this licence, Ashwani was authorised to possess two firearms: a 7.62 mm pistol and a 12-bore gun. He was also permitted to purchase up to 50 cartridges at a time, with an annual limit of 100 cartridges.
The case has raised questions about the scrutiny and verification procedures followed by the district administration before issuing arms licences. Ordinarily, the criminal antecedents of an applicant are an important consideration in the grant or renewal of an arms licence. However, in Ashwani's case, the reported existence of five police cases has prompted questions about whether the relevant records and rules were adequately considered.
The matter has assumed greater significance because the firearm licence reportedly enabled Ashwani to possess the weapon allegedly used in the killing of Parvinder Singh Jhoota at his shop.
Questions are now being raised over whether the licence was issued under any political pressure. This aspect, along with the circumstances surrounding the approval of the licence despite the reported criminal cases, is likely to be a key subject of scrutiny.
The revelations have brought the role of the district administration under focus, with questions being raised about accountability, compliance with licensing rules and the verification process followed before granting permission to possess firearms.
The circumstances under which the licence was approved, and whether any rules or procedures were violated, remain important issues requiring investigation.