UP police's Ghar Wapsi initiative, a move to reach out to radicalised youth

The initiative comes at a time when there is clear evidence of youth getting influenced by extremism.

The Uttar Pradesh police have embarked on a novel initiative to de-radicalise misguided youth and bring them back to the mainstream by means of counseling.

A move which can work wonders if implemented properly comes at a time when there is clear evidence of youth getting influenced by jihadi ideology. Recent incidents suggest that youth are getting drawn towards the ideology of Islamic State and getting inspired by jihadi material online.

This Ghar Wapsi program, according to a press note released by UP police's media cell, states that it would rope in religious leaders, friends and family to motivate the youth. It seeks to help the
family of the radicalised youth who often do not know what to do in such cases.

“This program is aimed at bringing back those who have either taken a step or have a mental inclination towards extremism due to the influence of jihadi ideology. The goal is to bring such
youth back to the mainstream by means of counseling and guidance,” the note said.

The initiative would involve frequent interactions with the youth, friends and family members. Religious personalities and family members would be involved in the counseling program which is expected to last for around 12 months. The interactions would be more initially but would be tapered off with time.

The cops have assured that the youth seeking help would not be used a police informer or used to nab the terrorists.

The end result that the police is looking at is to guide the person till he gets a job or gets married.

OneIndia News