What Self Defense Items I Can Carry Legally In India?

 

While getting a gun license is not easy in India, there are various other self-defense items that you can carry legally

Developing countries like India often face a high rate of crime. One can face safety risks on the streets, highways or even inside one’s home. While the focus should be on avoiding physical confrontation, it may sometimes become necessary to defend oneself. Let us take a look at some self-defense items, other than guns, that people can carry legally in India.

Right to self-defense in India

People have been given the right to self-defense in India under Sections 97 to 106 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Under these rules, an individual is allowed to use necessary and proportionate force to defend themselves. This will be applicable when there is a risk of imminent harm. However, use of such force for self-defense can still come under legal scrutiny. That is why it is important to not misuse the self-defense laws.

Self-defense items you can legally carry in India

Pepper spray – A non-lethal self-defense item, pepper spray causes temporary blindness and irritation. People can use pepper spray to escape from the attacker. It is allowed under the Arms Act, 1959. Even in the new BNS, there is no restriction on use of pepper spray. However, use of pepper spray should not violate BNS provisions like Section 105 (causing hurt) or Section 118 (causing grievous hurt).

High decibel alarm – These are designed to scare and confuse the attacker. Personal safety alarms work by producing high decibel alarms in the range of 130 to 140 decibels. Such alarms can be useful in distracting the attacker and getting the attention of other people. High decibel alarms are completely legal in India.

Pocket knife – You can carry pocket knives, but it must meet the blade size restriction of not more than 9-inches in length and 2-inches in width. Other types of knives such as gravity knives, switchblades and spring-loaded knives are not legal in India. When carrying a pocket knife, intent is also considered to establish its legal validity.

If you intend to harm someone with your pocket knife, it will be considered as an offence under Section 324 of the BNS. Use of pocket knives for self-defense is governed by Section 97 (right to private defense) and must be proportionate. Misuse of a pocket knife can result in charges against you under BNS sections like Section 118 (grievous hurt) or Section 351 (criminal force).

Baton / metal rod – These can be used to maintain a distance between you and the attacker. Foldable batons and safety rods are allowed under Arms Act, as long as they are not used in an offensive manner. The use should be proportionate under self-defense laws. Misuse can result in legal action under Section 105 or Section 118 of the BNS for causing harm.

Tactical pen – Since these are categorized as writing instruments, tactical pens are not regulated by the Arms Act. Tactical pens are usually made from steel or aluminum and can be used to strike the attacker. Proper training may be required to use tactical pens in a safe and effective manner.

Banned self-defense items in India

While many self-defense tools are legal in India, there are several banned items as well. These may be available for sale, but you should not buy them. For example, stun guns and tasers are not legal in India. These may be available online or offline, but possession without license can result in charges under Section 25 of the Arms Act (possession of prohibited arms).

Other self-defense items banned in India include unlicensed guns, brass knuckles, nunchucks, large blades and machetes. Swords and kirpans are allowed only for religious persons and not for everyone