Ohio: The gun laws in the United States has again in spotlight after multiple people were shot near a busy community street festival in Toledo, Ohio, on Saturday afternoon. A search for the suspects was ongoing as victims were taken to nearby hospitals, police said. Toledo police officers responded to a report of a person shot near the Old West End Festival at about 5.30 pm. When they arrived, they found multiple shooting victims, the police department said in a statement.

Police said "many victims" were transported to medical facilities but did not provide further details on the injuries and how many people were shot. Authorities also did not provide any details on what may have set off the shooting. Kevin Berry said he was sitting in the neighbourhood arboretum listening to live music with his friends when he heard a handful of gunshots ring out. "Everybody hit the deck," he said.

When he looked back up, he saw a gun being tossed to the ground less than 50 feet away from him. Police officers who were already on-site for the festival immediately responded to the scene.

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The Old West End Festival is a two-day celebration in Toledo's historic district that includes live music, food vendors, home tours and shopping. Berry described it as the "kick-off to Toledo's summer festival season." The lastest shooting has once again raised question over the gun laws in the United States.

What are the gun laws in US?

Gun laws in the US are a mix of federal laws plus state laws, which means rules can be very different depending on the state. For example, a gun that is legal in Texas may face restrictions in California or New York. The right to own guns comes from the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, but courts allow governments to place restrictions on who can own guns and how they are carried.

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How much easier is it to buy a gun in US compared to India?

Buying a gun is generally much easier in the US than in India, but the exact ease depends on the US state. In many US states, a person can walk into a licensed gun store, choose a firearm, complete paperwork, pass a background check, and sometimes leave with the gun the same day.

In stricter states, there may be waiting periods, permits, or training requirements. For example, in states like Texas or Arizona, laws tend to be more permissive, while in states like California or New York, there are more restrictions, permits, and limits.

(With inputs from agency)

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