According to intelligence reports, kids are being used as informers to tip off terrorists on the movement of security forces
Terror outfits in Jammu and Kashmir are now increasingly relying on schoolchildren. Alarmed with the trend, the government is planning a de-radicalisation programme involving teachers and elders.
According to intelligence reports, kids are being used as informers to tip off terrorists on the movement of security forces. Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) commander Abu Dujana's escape on Thursday night is the latest example. Though the army had laid a cordon, he escaped. This is the fourth time Dujana is slipping from the net of security forces.
In order to attract schoolchildren, terrorist groups are posting pictures of kids with weapons on WhatsApp. "Even children below 10 years of age are being targeted and brainwashed," said army sources.
As part of the de-radicalisation plan, children are being engaged in different activities in schools and teachers are being encouraged to hold classes wherever possible. Most burnt schools are yet to be reconstructed.
"We are trying to ensure that teachers hold classes in the open, if need be. All security measures are being taken," said a government official. Burning of schools peaked between July and November last year. In March this year also, there were a few incidents.
Burning of schools started after the killing of Burhan Wani, a local commander of the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in July last year. This led to several children being left with no choice but to join local madrassas.
This is when terrorists radicalise young minds, according to intelligence reports. Wani's killing triggered months of unrest, leading to increased local recruitment by terror outfits. "Every fortnight, there are at least 3-4 recruitments. There have been over 40 recruitments this year," said an army source.
Most children are from poor background and have been involved in petty crimes in the past. They are manly class 10-12 dropouts and are initiated into terror activities after being asked to indulge in weapon-snatching.
The number of violent incidents in south Kashmir have also become more frequent.
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