Militancy not one-way route, will welcome your return: Top Army Commander's appeal

Indian Army has reiterated that it will welcome those local militants in Kashmir who choose to shun the path of violence.

General Officer Commanding (GOC) 15 Corps Lieutenant General BS Raju on October 26 appealed to the misguided youth to shun militancy, which he said was not a "one-way route", adding that Army will welcome those wanting to return to mainstream.

Lieutenant General Raju made the appeal while talking to reporters on the sidelines of Yusmarg festival in Budgam district of central Kashmir.

"I appeal to youth who are ready to shun militancy to return to their homes as the environment is favourable for them for starting a peaceful and dignified life," Lieutenant General Raju told reporters at Yusmarg Mela organised by Army and was attended by some 3500 people of all age groups.

Numerous events were organised at the mela which included sports and cultural programs catering to the interest of youth who said they enjoyed participating in the mela hosted by the Army.