New Delhi: Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbagh Singh revealed that the number of local youths joining terrorist groups in Jammu and Kashmir has significantly decreased in 2023.
In contrast to the previous year's 110 recruits, only 10 locals have joined such groups this year. DGP Singh made this announcement while appealing to those involved in militancy to abandon violence and reintegrate into mainstream society. He emphasised that terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir has been on the decline and that any remaining remnants will be swiftly eliminated.
The official shared these comments with reporters following his visit to the Mata Badrakali Temple in Handwara, Kupwara district.
He expressed a desire for those who have taken up arms against the state to return to the path of peace, as he believes that continued violence is not in anyone's best interest. He explained that out of the 10 youths who joined terrorist groups this year, six have already lost their lives, and the remaining four are also expected to meet the same fate.
Furthermore, Singh noted that terrorists have families, and their deaths do not bring satisfaction to the security forces. He stressed that the government's intention is to support those who wish to renounce violence, surrender their weapons, and lead normal lives.
The DGP also highlighted significant improvements in the security situation over the last five years, with terrorism dwindling in the region.
He believes that the remnants of terrorism in the area will be eradicated soon. As a result, the atmosphere of fear has dissipated, and people of all ages can now move freely.
Singh mentioned that North Kashmir, in particular, is almost free of terrorism, with no active terrorists in the region. While there are a few transient terrorists moving between locations, Singh expressed confidence in their eventual elimination.