What is laththi?

A lathi (Hindi: लाठी, Urdu: لاٹھی, Bengali: লাঠি), also spelled lathī, is a heavy stick, usually made of bamboo, sometimes bound with steel. It is commonly used by police and sometimes by villagers in the Indian subcontinent.

• Use: The primary use of a lathi is as a weapon for crowd control and self-defense. Police forces in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries use lathis during riots or protests to disperse crowds.
• Material: Traditionally, lathis are made from seasoned bamboo, which is naturally strong and flexible. Some lathis are reinforced with metal bands for added durability.
• Construction: A typical lathi's length can vary, but they are generally around 4 to 6 feet long. They are often oiled or treated to prevent cracking and splitting.
• Effectiveness: The lathi is an effective tool due to its length, which allows the user to maintain a safe distance while delivering blows. When used properly, it can inflict pain and temporary incapacitation.
• Controversies: The use of lathis by law enforcement has been subject to controversy, particularly concerning excessive force and potential for abuse.