A fresh Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) recruit, Majid Khan, on Friday “returned home and gave up the gun” in the wake of repeated appeals made by the family and friends on social media. The 20-year-old was a local football star.
“The brave boy decided himself to give up violence and get back into the mainstream. We ensured he safely returned after we came to know about an opportunity (of his return) on Thursday. No charges will be pressed against him so that he pursues his career and sporting passion,” said General Officer Commanding (GOC), Victor Force, Maj. Gen. B.S Raju.
GOC Raju also offered a surrender option to those militants involved in crimes but intend to return. “They may have to face the law of the land. But we will ensure their return to the mainstream,” he said.
Mr. Khan — who was mentally disturbed after the killing of his close friend Yawar Nisar in an encounter in August this year — joined the LeT two weeks ago and announced it on the social media by posting gun-wielding pictures, invoking a barrage of appeals from friends and family.
Mr. Khan’s mother Ashiya Begum, 50, made an emotional appeal to her lone son online.
He was also fast turning into a poster boy of militancy, motivating many to join online.
The police want other local militants, whose number is around 150, to join the mainstream. Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Muneer Khan said Mr. Khan had neither “surrendered nor was he apprehended.” “His mother, father and friends were instrumental in bringing him back,” the IGP said.
In an appeal to local militants, the IGP said, “We are ready to welcome those who have gone astray. Violence will take us nowhere. Let all local youth return home, resume work and establish peace. They have a right to live a dignified life.”
Mr. Khan’s decision has brought joy to the family. “He was the only support to the ageing parents. I have two daughters. I have come out to offer prayers. I am happy and thank all who prayed for his return,” said father Irshad Khan, who was hospitalised recently due to mental stress.
Mr. Khan, a resident of Anantnag, earned goodwill locally due to his social work during the 2014 floods. Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said it was “a mother’s love that prevailed.” “Her impassioned appeal helped in getting Khan back home. ,” she tweeted.
