Omar defends ‘rehabilitation policy’ for Jammu and Kashmir youth who migrated to PoK

UDHAMPUR - Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday defended his rehabilitation policy for youths who had crossed to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) for arms training, and now wish to return back.

The measure was approved by the provincial and the Central Government after consultation with the Army and central security agencies.

“This is not a surrender policy. The surrender policy has been in vogue in the State for many years and we have benefited from it. This is a rehabilitation policy for those who crossed the border for training but don’t want to come back with guns,” said Abdullah.

According to the policy, youths who had crossed over to Pakistan between 1989 and 2009 would be eligible for the rehabilitation scheme to resume their normal life after proper precautions.

“To plug that illegal way, we have prepared a lawful provision under which they can come back. They will have to go through counselling and we will keep a watch on them,” said Abdullah.

The provision is expected to put an end to illegal entry of such persons through Nepal, Bangladesh or from Punjab’s Wagah border-post.

As per the guidelines, parents of the youths who traversed the border can approach the Superintendent of Police of their district, certifying that their child wanted to return and be integrated into the mainstream.

The person would then be put up in a camp where he would be imparted vocational training to earn his livelihood. By Anil Dubey (ANI)