'Anti-Stabbing Unit' to stop people from carrying knives, weapons in K'taka's Belagavi

IANS June 19, 2025 319 views

Belagavi Police will deploy an Anti-Stabbing Unit after minors stabbed a teen over a bus seat. Commissioner Borase warned of stop-and-frisk checks and legal action under the Arms Act. The accused in the recent attack were arrested within 30 minutes. The unit aims to deter weapon-carrying in public through patrols and strict penalties.

"We won’t stop with filing a case under the Arms Act - we will also open a rowdy sheet against them." - Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase
Belagavi, June 19 : Belagavi Police Commissioner Bhushan Gulabrao Borase has announced the formation of an Anti-Stabbing Unit in the city to identify and prevent individuals, especially minors, from carrying knives and other dangerous weapons in public places.

Key Points

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New unit targets knife-carrying minors in public spaces

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Patrols to enforce stop-and-frisk under BNS laws

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Rowdy sheets for offenders during festivals

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Swift arrest in bus stabbing case

The announcement was made on Thursday while he was addressing the media about a stabbing incident involving two minors who got into a fight over a window seat on a bus.

“What is surprising is that these young children are roaming around in broad daylight with knives and weapons, and are indulging in acts like stabbing. In light of this, to prevent such incidents in the future, we will be forming an Anti-Stabbing Unit by tomorrow,” he said.

He added that a team of five to six police personnel will patrol public areas in a vehicle. “Under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the CrPC, we have the authority to stop and frisk individuals who appear suspicious. We will check their pockets and vehicles,” the Police Commissioner stated.

“Anyone found carrying dangerous weapons such as knives or swords will be booked under the Arms Act. If anyone is found roaming in Belagavi city with such weapons, they will face legal consequences,” he warned.

He further stated, “We won’t stop with filing a case under the Arms Act - we will also open a rowdy sheet against them. This means they will be required to report to the police station during every festival or special occasion.”

Issuing a stern warning, the Commissioner added, “This is a message to those who carry knives and other weapons: do not attempt to play with the law.”

Providing details of the recent stabbing incident, he said that an argument broke out between one Maaz Abdul Rasheed Sannadi and another juvenile over a window seat on a bus, according to eyewitnesses.

Following the altercation, the juvenile called a friend. When the bus stopped, the friend -- also a minor -- joined him, threatened and verbally abused Rasheed, and then stabbed him. Rasheed is currently in critical condition, the Commissioner said.

Upon receiving information, a team led by DCP Rohan Jagadish, along with inspectors from Belagavi city, launched an investigation. The accused were apprehended within 30 minutes. As both suspects are minors, legal action will be taken against them in accordance with the law.

“We are conducting a scientific investigation and are making every effort to ensure that the juveniles are held accountable for their actions,” Police Commissioner Borase stated.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse user comments reflecting Indian perspectives on the news article:
R
Rahul K.
Good initiative by Belagavi police! Strict action is needed when even minors are carrying weapons. Parents should also be held accountable - where are children getting knives from? 👏
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the police's efforts, I worry this might lead to harassment of innocent youth. The focus should be on counseling and rehabilitation for minors, not just punishment. Prevention is better than cure.
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Sanjay T.
Shocking to see kids fighting over bus seats with knives! What's happening to our society? Schools should conduct regular workshops on anger management and conflict resolution. Jai Hind!
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Ananya R.
The police response is quick and commendable, but we need long-term solutions. More CCTV cameras, community policing, and better parenting are equally important. Hope the victim recovers soon 🙏
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Vikram S.
Rowdy sheets for knife carriers? Excellent! Belagavi setting an example for other cities. Strict enforcement of Arms Act is needed nationwide. These kids watch too many violent movies/serials these days.
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Neha P.
The Anti-Stabbing Unit is a good start, but what about knife shops near schools? There should be age verification for purchasing sharp objects. Also, bus conductors should be trained to handle such conflicts.

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Tags:
Belagavi crime Anti-Stabbing Unit knife violence Bhushan Borase juvenile crime Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita