Kirpans and UK knife law: what are the rules? The conviction of Vickrum Digwa for murder has led to discussions about kirpans, ceremonial Sikh blades. UK law allows possession of kirpans for religious reasons, but they can be considered offensive weapons if used unlawfully. Sikh leaders have condemned the murder and stated the blade used was not a kirpan, while some politicians and police commissioners are calling for a review of religious exemptions for carrying knives.

• Vickrum Digwa was convicted of murder, leading to a discussion about kirpans, ceremonial Sikh blades.
• A kirpan is one of the five Ks, articles of faith for Sikhs, symbolizing grace and defense against injustice.
• UK law permits carrying a kirpan for religious reasons, but it can be classified as an offensive weapon if used unlawfully.
• Sikh community leaders have condemned the murder and stated the weapon used was not a kirpan.
• Calls for a review of religious exemptions for knife carrying have been made by a police and crime commissioner.
• Reform UK has called for a ban on kirpans.
• The murder has heightened anxieties within the British Sikh community regarding rising anti-Sikh sentiment and misinformation.