Following several incidents of stabbing in several areas of Srinagar, the authorities on Friday ordered ban on sale and purchase of sharp-edged weapons at public places across the district.
According to an order, a copy of which lies with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), sharp-edged weapons include any object or instrument that possesses a blade, edge, or point capable of causing injury or harm to individuals, but not limited to knives, swords, daggers, box cutters, and razors.
The order stated that the step has been taken after Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar reported that during past few months there have been multiple incidents of stabbing and attacks using sharp edged weapons in Srinagar.
It added that the incidents were witnessed in Qamarwari, Bemina, Kralpora, Batmaloo, Nowhatta, Kothibagh and Rambagh during past 3 months.
The order stated that the safety and security of the public is of paramount importance and incidents involving the use of sharp-edged weapons in public places pose a significant threat to the lives and safety of the citizens.
“Possession of sharp-edged weapons whose blade is more than 09 inches long or whose blade is more than 02 inches wide for any purpose other than domestic, agricultural, scientific, and industrial purposes is a cognizable offence under Arms Act 1959. Now, therefore, I, District Magistrate, Srinagar, hereby impose ban on sale, purchase and carrying of sharp-edged weapons in public places, in Srinagar with immediate effect.”
It added that the ban shall be applicable to the business establishments engaged in, sale and purchase of such weapons.
“Sharp-edged weapons shall include any object instrument that possesses a blade, edge, or point capable of causing injury or harm to individuals, including but not limited to knives, swords, daggers, box cutters, and razors. Public places shall encompass streets, parks, recreational areas, public parks, transport facilities, markets, schools, religious places, government buildings and any other locations accessible to the general public.”
It reads that the ban shall apply to all individuals except law enforcement agencies and individuals possessing such weapons for legitimate occupational purposes (e.g butchers, carpenters, electricians, chefs etc).
“Any individual possessing sharp edged weapon(s) shall surrender the same in the nearest police station within next 72 hours after which such weapons shall be seized by Srinagar police and appropriate action shall be initiated under the law. Any violation of this order shall be dealt with firmly, and appropriate legal action will be taken as per section 188 of Indian Penal code, 1860.”
It added that Senior Superintendent of police Srinagar shall implement the order in letter and spirit—(KNO)