A trishul is a type of traditional trident in some parts of India, seen as part of traditional religion, but which can also be used as a lethal weapon. This is the weapon wielded by Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The three points are said to represent Shiva's three aspects - creator, destroyer and protector. Trishuls have been systematically distributed to followers of the VHP during the 1990s and the beginning of the 21st century. (see trishūla is Sanskrit for "three-spear". This is the original meaning of the term.

Reference

Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0500510881) by Anna L. Dallapiccola