Man of Dhoni's stature does not require character certificate: DC

Ranchi, Nov 13 (UNI) The hurdle for Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni to obtain a license for nine mm pistol has been removed with Deputy Commissioner writing to South Chotanagpur Divisional Commissioner that a person of this stature does not require a probe into antecedents.

DC Arun Kumar Ekka late yesdterday wrote the letter as Mahi's (Dhoni) angry fans raised protest and held demonstration besides burning effigies at Elbart Ekka Choiwk here demanding quick clearance of the three-month-old pending case.

Earlier, the authorities said the character certificate was required in the wake of spurt in naxalite activities in Jharkhand.

The Ranchi district arms magistrate who had dashed a letter to Dhoni, asking him to get a character certificate from SP (Vigilance), SP (CID) and SP (Special Branch) today said they acted on the file as the inordinate delay came to light.

The state government was understood to have taken the matter with concern and was taking care that further dealy could be avoided.

Dhoni applied for the license in August, 2008.

South Chotanagpur Divisional Commissioner Sheela Kisku Rapaz on September 23 last declined the gun license to Dhoni and stated that his application for arm license would be considered only when his character certificate would be procured from the SP (vigilance) SP (CID) and SP (Special Branch).

Generally, nine mm pistol is a prohibitory weapon and supplied to police and Defence. The licenses of .32 and .22 bore are given to the civilians.

The Union Home Ministry could only issue license of nine mm to civilians following recommendation by the State Government.

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