- The article examines the increasing trend or discussion around 'shoot-to-disable' tactics by law enforcement agencies in India instead of fatal force or standard procedures. - It raises critical questions regarding legality, proportionality, human rights, and the rule of law in police actions. - Discusses the guidelines and judicial precedents governing the use of firearms by the police, emphasizing self-defense and minimal necessary force. - Highlights the thin line between extrajudicial measures and lawful policing, cautioning against normalizing extra-legal enforcement. - **Supreme Court of India:** The apex judicial tribunal of India established under Article 124 of the Constitution, possessing final constitutional interpretation and appellate powers, including setting strict guidelines for police encounters to prevent extrajudicial killings. - **National Human Rights Commission (NHRC):** An autonomous statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, mandated to protect and promote human rights, including issuing mandatory guidelines on encounter deaths and police accountability. **Introduction** This article from The Hindu discusses the debate surrounding the 'shoot-to-disable' policy or practice by police forces, analyzing its implications for human rights, rule of law, and constitutional policing in India. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - The article examines the increasing trend or discussion around 'shoot-to-disable' tactics by law enforcement agencies in India instead of fatal force or standard procedures. - It raises critical questions regarding legality, proportionality, human rights, and the rule of law in police actions. - Discusses the guidelines and judicial precedents governing the use of firearms by the police, emphasizing self-defense and minimal necessary force. - Highlights the thin line between extrajudicial measures and lawful policing, cautioning against normalizing extra-legal enforcement. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **Supreme Court of India:** The apex judicial tribunal of India established under Article 124 of the Constitution, possessing final constitutional interpretation and appellate powers, including setting strict guidelines for police encounters to prevent extrajudicial killings. - **National Human Rights Commission (NHRC):** An autonomous statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, mandated to protect and promote human rights, including issuing mandatory guidelines on encounter deaths and police accountability.