Top security experts in Jammu and Kashmir have advocated a few changes in the new draft of a surrender policy so that it becomes attractive for the militants willing to shun militancy.
The experts believe the primary focus of the policy needs tobe on the rehabilitation front so that the youth who return to the mainstreamlive a “secure and happy life.”
The draft policy titled “Reintegration Policy for theMisguided Youth” was prepared by the National Security Council earlier thisyear primarily to prevent recruitment of Kashmiri youth into militancy.
The draft policy that was under discussion within thesecurity grid of Kashmir entailed amnesty from prosecution for local militantswho surrender. Also, if a surrendered militant gets a government job, hewouldn’t be disqualified because of his past.
The policy had also suggested subsidized education for thechildren of surrendered militants in an institution of their choice in J&Kor other parts of the country.
A security expert revealed that of the 23 youth who hadjoined militancy so far this year, three “returned” and five had been killed.He said 30 youth each had picked up arms in 2017 and 2018 during this period.
“This year the recruitment has been low. And now that theyouth have started returning, there is a need for a comprehensive policy,” hesaid.
“Even though the NSC has worked out a good model, certainchanges need to be made in the policy so that more and more militantssurrender. We plan recommending a fewchanges in the new draft before it is rolled out formally,” he said.
He said rehabilitation package should entail a proper planfor his survival and livelihood so that he marries off and lives a happy life,the expert said on the condition of anonymity.
“There has to be a skill development plan for the youths whoare not so qualified so that they have a livelihood,” he added.
A top police officer said they were expecting moresurrenders to take place and though local recruitment has decreased, they won’t”leave anything to chance” in the summer months.
After finalizing the changes, the draft would be discussedwith the Governor S P Malik before it is sent to the Ministry of Home Affairsand NSC for approval.
“This all is possible only after the Lok Sabha poll resultsare out and the new government takes the charge. But a policy that promisesmore rehabilitation and security of the youth is need of the hour,” the policeofficer said.
He said the surrender policy is meant purely for localyouths willing to shun militancy. It is, he said, different from the onedrafted in 2010 for the militants who want to return home from Pakistanadministered Kashmir.