Yes, it is possible and is being done in Saudi Arabia. Al Qaida terrorists of Saudi origin arrested in Pakistan, Iran etc are brought to Thumamah a prison/rehabilitation center run by Saudi Government, which is half an hour drive from Capital Riyadh and provided all facilities including swimming pool, gym. In the evening the inmates can play football or learn art. The inmates have luxurious quarters. They attend various classes including classes on religion which
helps them in alleviate the misconception about Islam and jihad. Their families can come and visit them on weekends. The only difference between outside world and inside is the fenced compound. After completing the program, the government pays them monthly allowance of 3000 riyals, a car and a job.
This center has successfullyfully rehabilitated more than 3500 Al Qaeda men.
We can take this concept and try to adopt it for our Naxalites and other militants/terrorists. Of course we may not have as much financial resources. But the public will be ready to donate and participate in such a program. The inmates could be trained in various job oriented programs which may help them in becoming financially independant later. And at the end of the program, the inmates can be provided with a job/loan.
The youth who become terrorists are either disillusioned with the government or frustrated with poverty. The government should help them and thus avoid thousands of future terrorists.
Reference : Reborn in Riyadh by The-Week magazine
This center has successfullyfully rehabilitated more than 3500 Al Qaeda men.
We can take this concept and try to adopt it for our Naxalites and other militants/terrorists. Of course we may not have as much financial resources. But the public will be ready to donate and participate in such a program. The inmates could be trained in various job oriented programs which may help them in becoming financially independant later. And at the end of the program, the inmates can be provided with a job/loan.
The youth who become terrorists are either disillusioned with the government or frustrated with poverty. The government should help them and thus avoid thousands of future terrorists.
Reference : Reborn in Riyadh by The-Week magazine
i have read this article in The Week (am a subscriber) & found it a novel initiative
ReplyDeleteyour post has done well to highlight this project by the Saudi govt
Thanks Sujatha
ReplyDelete