In response to a spate of stabbing incidents in various areas, the authorities in Srinagar have taken a decisive step to curb the menace. Srinagar District Magistrate, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, announced a ban on the sale, purchase, and carrying of sharp-edged weapons in public places, citing the need to prioritize public safety and security.
The decision was prompted by a series of recent stabbing incidents reported from locations including Qamarwari, Bemina, Kralpora, Batmaloo, Nowhatta, Kothibagh, and Rambagh, among others. Senior Superintendent of Police highlighted the potential threat to the lives and safety of citizens due to the growing use of sharp-edged weapons in public spaces.
The order, which will come into effect immediately, specifies that any object or instrument with a blade, edge, or point capable of causing injury or harm, such as knives, swords, daggers, box cutters, and razors, will be classified as a ‘sharp-edged weapon.’ It further clarifies that the ban applies to weapons whose blades are more than nine inches long or more than two inches wide, except for domestic, agricultural, scientific, and industrial purposes.
The Arms Act of 1959 will govern the enforcement of this ban, making the possession of such weapons, for purposes other than those deemed legitimate, a cognisable offense. The restriction will be applicable to all business establishments engaged in the sale or purchase of sharp-edged weapons within the jurisdiction of District Srinagar.
However, the order does take into consideration certain exemptions. Law enforcement agencies will be excluded from the ban, as they need to carry such weapons to fulfill their duty of maintaining law and order. Additionally, individuals engaged in specific occupations, including butchers, carpenters, electricians, chefs, etc., whose work legitimately requires the use of sharp-edged tools, will also be exempt.
To ensure compliance, individuals possessing such weapons for legitimate reasons are required to surrender them to the nearest police station within the next 72 hours. This measure aims to swiftly remove dangerous weapons from the public domain and prevent further untoward incidents.
District Magistrate Mohammad Aijaz Asad emphasized that the ban has been implemented in the best interest of public welfare. He urged the citizens of Srinagar to cooperate with the authorities in implementing the order and help maintain peace and safety in the region.
The administration’s move has been widely appreciated by residents, who believe it will act as a deterrent to potential miscreants and help restore a sense of security in public spaces. As the ban takes effect, the authorities remain vigilant to ensure that it is rigorously enforced, and steps are taken to prevent the illegal sale and possession of sharp-edged weapons.
With this proactive measure in place, the people of Srinagar hope to witness a reduction in violent incidents and an overall improvement in the safety of their beloved city.
