In a country where the system fails to keep you safe, taking control of your own defense becomes an act of survival. While no tool can replace awareness and good judgment, certain self-defense equipment can help give you a fighting chance in dangerous situations such as robbery or attempted sexual assault and worst of all – rape. 

According to Section 96 of the Penal Code, any act done in the exercise of the right of private defense is not considered an offense. Section 97 further elaborates that every individual has the right to defend their own body and property, as well as that of others, against certain offenses. 

Section 100 of the Penal Code of Bangladesh deals with the right of private defense of the body extending to causing death. In Simple Terms: You can use deadly force in self-defense if you are attacked in a way that:

• Could kill you

• Could cause serious injury

• Is meant to rape, kidnap, or confine you

• Is aimed at committing an unnatural sexual act

Therefore, it is evident that using lethal force to defend yourself isn’t an offense. The question isn’t about if it’s legal or not, it’s about how to defend yourself and what tools to use. 

In this Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAM), let’s take a look at some of the most effective, easy to carry and common self defense equipments you can use for your safety: 

1. Pepper spray: one of the most popular self-defense tools, and for good reason. It’s compact, non lethal, and can be made at home. It can temporarily blind and disorient an 

attacker, giving you time to escape.

2. Tasers: Tasers are a popular form of non-lethal self-defense equipment designed to immobilize an attacker temporarily by delivering an electric shock. They work by shooting two small, dart-like electrodes connected to the device by thin wires. When these electrodes make contact with a person, they deliver a high-voltage, low-current electrical charge that disrupts voluntary control of muscles, causing temporary paralysis and disorientation. Tasers can stop an attacker from a distance (typically 10 to 25 feet), allowing the user to defend themselves without physical confrontation.

3. Knuckle dusters: Designed to be worn around the fingers, these compact metal tools increase the force of a punch while protecting your own knuckles from injury. Though often associated with street fighting and pop culture, many people consider them a last-resort option for self-defense against physical assault, robbery, or sexual violence.

4. Knives/blades: Knives are among the oldest self-defense tools known to humans—and they’re still around for a reason. Compact, easy to conceal, and extremely effective at close range, a knife can be a powerful deterrent or a last-resort weapon if escape isn’t possible. In a recent event, a woman cut off a man’s genital during a rape attempt. In self defense, the victim said she took out a blade from her bag and struck parvez’s genitals with it.  

5. Stun guns: These devices deliver a non-lethal electric shock to disable an attacker temporarily. They require close contact, but the results are quick and effective. Some models even come disguised as other items like flashlights or phones.

6. Expandable batons: These steel or alloy batons can be extended with a flick of the wrist. While they require some confidence to use effectively, they can deliver strong defensive blows and intimidate attackers into backing off.