Khushboo Patani, a former Indian Army Major turned fitness coach, uploaded a 2‑minute clip to Instagram on March 15, 2026. In it, she urged women to take up self‑defence skills and suggested CO2‑powered air pistols as a viable tool, insisting that women should not rely solely on others for safety.
Under Rule 84 of the Arms Rules, 2016, any air weapon with a muzzle energy above 20 joules or a bore larger than 0.177 inches must be licensed. Even weapons below this threshold cannot be bought anonymously or from ordinary toy shops; licensed dealers are mandatory.
The law treats an illegally possessed or used air gun as a dangerous weapon. Section 118 of the Indian Penal Code punishes voluntary hurt with up to three years’ imprisonment or a fine, while Section 125 covers negligent injury. More serious offences, such as attempting murder with an air gun, attract up to ten years’ jail under Section 109. Public display or brandishing of the weapon can also lead to intimidation charges under Sections 351 and 352.
The video has sparked a wave of online commentary: some users claim air guns are unregulated, whereas legal experts warn that ignoring licensing requirements can lead to prison time. The post has prompted law‑enforcement agencies to reinforce their guidance on arms licensing and to monitor the sale and use of CO2‑powered air pistols across the country.