Citizens sans weapons

This refers to the letter, ‘Citizens against weapons’ (July 9) by Naeem Sadiq. The suggestions made in the letter are excellent but will only work in a utopian state. All decisions should be taken keeping in view ground realities. Millions of illegal arms – many times more than those that are licensed – are held by people mostly for self defence against outlaws and enemies, particularly in remote areas.
It is interesting to note that many Americans carry handguns for self-defence even when going out for a walk. It is suggested that those holding licensed weapons should be disarmed only after illegal arms have been recovered and the security of law-abiding citizens had been ensured.
M Akram Niazi
Rawalpindi