Kashmir: Militant thanks troops for allowing to surrender during Shopian encounter

In a video message, the militant identified as Adil Rashid Bhat, a resident of Awantipora, Pulwama said he thanked the troops for allowing him to surrender during the encounter at Killora Shopian. Bhat said he will continue his studies and become a doctor to serve the people of the state and country.

According to reports, as the encounter ensued between militants and security forces during a joint Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) on Friday, Col A K Singh who was leading from the front learnt that all militants are locals. He offered them to surrender. However, militants refused and continued firing, reports said.

Later, when Col Singh was told that one of the militant Adil Rashid Bhat was doing BUMS degree, he immediately again contacted him and urged him to surrender and complete his degree.

Adil later surrendered before the troops after assurance by Col Singh that he will be supported to lead a normal life and complete his degree of BUMS.

Adil had gone missing on August 21 from his home. His family members appealed him to return back to home.

This is the first such case in recent years when a militant had surrendered during an encounter in the valley.