It’s about how you use it
There are enough guns, especially in the US, that children can use — and are already using! Why not start from the basics? Look at the toys targeted for young boys: guns, sabres, knives, swords and cannons. Look at the games! They revolve around only fights, cars and wars. It’s just plain destruction. Why aren’t these banned instead? Then, there will be no need for anyone to start a debate on the usage of guns for learning.
By learning how to shoot, it does not necessarily make people killers. Taught properly, it can make a positive difference and help children realise the destructive power of guns, which would make them more sensible and aware.
We need to stop taking everything in a negative light. The news is only full of such things as war, crime, destruction, suicide bombers, thefts and rapes. The list of negative items is endless. When will anyone take the necessary effort to correct our negative way of thinking, and turn our planet into a loving, habitable home?
From Mr Ajit Lamba
UAE
Finish school first
There is no need for controversy regarding gifting a license to children at the age of 13, to shoot guns, since there are thousands of other toys available in the open market. First of all, these children have not reached a level of maturity. Secondly, they have just arrived at the high school level. They are supposed to go to school to get a good education — not to play with guns! If they are able to practice shooting, certainly they will try the same, not only in the school compound, but also at home, turning the guns against parents or relatives.
I am vehemently opposed to this idea, which will invite more problems for society. Any country’s history, heritage and culture will not tell children who are too young, to pick up guns and start shooting. That’s foolishness. If at all required, they can be given proper training after their education and that too, in the context of protecting their country from enemies. Giving education to children is what parents want. That’s the first priority. You can teach the history of your ancestors from the high school level but, at the same time, advise children not to pick up a gun. Nobody is denying children their rights, if they get historical information after their complete educational course. That’s more than enough.
From Mr Thottikamath Balaraman
Dubai
Discourage gunplay
To allow children to play with guns and military equipment is corrupting their young minds and it is in no way justified. For those who argue that it is part of their country’s heritage and history, I am sure that every country has many other things to take pride in, than just weapons and war. Also, parents should discourage their children from playing at such places that do more harm than good.
From Ms Fatima Suhail
Sharjah
Awareness isn’t a bad thing
Unnecessarily carrying weapons, even for hunting or fun, is dangerous adventurism. Mistakes or negligence in handling the same may result in serious fatalities. Civilians carrying weapons is a punishable offence in some countries, whereas the same practice is allowed elsewhere in the name of tradition. Children may use weapons indiscriminately. In the US, even though people carry weapons with them, the crime rate is lower than it could be, thanks to the level of awareness.
From Mr Girish R. Edathitta
UAE
Results in murders
This gun culture is more predominant in the US. Young people should not be given licences and should be allowed to use a gun only in the shooting range with proper instructors. Because of this culture, many shooting incidents have resulted in the murder of innocent people. Gun culture aggravates vengeful attitudes. In my opinion, this should not be allowed.
From Mr Ragavan Krishnamachary
UAE
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