Will Russians be given the right to carry concealed handguns?

I would be very surprised, but it is interesting that the entire topic is even being discussed. Apparently, the gun laws in Russia primarily disarm the law-abiding citizens there also. Irina Aervitz has an interesting article here:

The recent shooting in a Moscow supermarket by police major Denis Yevsyukov, who killed three people and wounded six others, only added to the negative image of those who are supposed to protect the population from armed criminals.

Yevsyukov used a pistol that had been missing for nine years, and it is now suspected that he and his deputy were engaged in illegal gun trade. The incident has spurred debate over further legalisation of gun ownership in Russia, including the right to carry a gun.

One problem facing Russian authorities is the frequent involvement of law enforcement officers in the illegal arms trade.

Unlike in the United States, where citizens have a right to bear arms under the constitution, the Russian federal government has a monopoly on gun legislation. The Soviet Union prohibited civilian gun ownership in 1929. Josef Stalin once reportedly said: "We don't let them have ideas. Why would we let them have guns?"

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, gun laws became less stringent. Current law divides those who are allowed to own firearms into three categories: regular citizens, military personnel and law enforcement officers. Each category can own only particular types of firearms: civilians are permitted to use firearms for self-defence, hunting, sports shooting and signalling.

People looking to buy a gun have to obtain a license from the Interior Ministry, which involves having a medical and a criminal record check, as well as completion of a gun safety course.

There are also restrictions concerning keeping and carrying guns around. To hunt, one has to be a member of a hunting club. Certain rules regulate the safe storage of a firearm in the house, but many argue that storing a gun apart from ammunition defeats the purpose of owning a gun for self-defence.

Advocates of further gun legalisation in Russia argue that any kind of weapon can be purchased on the black market, and thus the government should allow the public to defend itself from criminals. Plus, the legalisation of weapons would provide for a better control mechanism through licensing and taxation. . . . .

Thanks to Michael Rash for this link.