The High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bilaspur on August 25 2025 presided by CJ Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru heard a suo motu PIL concerning the illegal sale of sharp-edged weapons, particularly knives, in local markets and on online platforms.
The Court had earlier directed the Principal Secretary, Home Department, to submit an affidavit regarding a news report published in Bilaspur Bhaskar on 14 August 2025. In compliance, the Additional Chief Secretary of Home Department, filed an affidavit stating that police had repeatedly sought details from e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, Snapdeal and Shopclues regarding buyers of knives. Based on the information received, 211 knives were seized from 193 persons. Surprise checks in Bilaspur district further led to seizure of 12 spring button knives from one shopkeeper and 10 knives from two others, with cases registered under Section 25 of the Arms Act 1959.The affidavit further revealed that in Bilaspur district, 225 cases under the Arms Act were registered in 2023, 216 in 2024, and 235 up to 17 August 2025, while in the first half of 2025 alone, 32 knife attack cases were reported and the accused apprehended. At the state level, 1399 cases under the Arms Act were registered in 2024 and 677 cases between January and June 2025.
The Court observed that the statistics painted an alarming picture of the situation in society. While acknowledging that the State was taking measures such as seizures, checks, and coordination with online platforms, the Court emphasised that greater vigilance and proactive steps were needed to curb the menace. The matter has been posted for further monitoring on September 22, 2025.
Appearances:
For the State :AG Prafull N Bharat w/ Deputy AG Shashank Thakur
