Safety of citizens utmost priority

The ban imposed by the government on sale and purchase of the sharp edged weapons in wake of the stabbing incidents, that left many people injured so far, was the need of the hour as the easy availability of such weapons in the public places are one among the reasons that the stabbing incidents have been reported in Srinagar and elsewhere in the Valley. The decision should have been taken at the first instance, but better late than never, the government has imposed complete ban on its sale, purchase as well as carrying in public places, which is quite appreciative move, but puts extra the responsibility on the shoulders of law enforcing agencies to go for frisking of the suspects round the clock to ensure that no one is allowed to keep the sharp edged with him/her along. The possession of sharp-edged weapons “whose blade is more than 9 inches long or whose blade is more than 2 inches wide” for any purpose other than domestic, agricultural, scientific, and industrial purposes is a cognizable offence under Arms Act 1959. During the past few months there have been multiple incidents of stabbing and attacks using sharp edged weapons in Srinagar. Stabbing incidents in the pockets of Qamarwari, Bemina, Kralpora, Batamaloo, Nowhatta, Kothibagh, Rambagh etc of Srinagar have been reported during the past three months of the current year. The safety and security of the public is of paramount importance and thus simultaneously, keeping the sharp edged weapon in public places poses a significant threat to the lives of the citizens. Therefore, the government has taken the step in the right direction, which needs to be implemented in letter and spirit.