BATHINDA: Peace activists from India and Pakistan have heaved a sigh of relief at the safe return of Aaghaz-e-Dosti’s Pakistan chapter convener Raza Khan after more than seven and a half months. Raza had gone missing from Lahore on December 2, 2017. Lahore police on Friday announced his safe return.Several protests were organized over the last seven months to seek his return. Aaghaz-e-Dosti is a friendship initiative between the Indian and Pakistani citizens, to it conducts various activities, such as calendar release and painting competitions on both sides of the border. One such programme was organized simultaneously at Lahore and Surat in Gujarat last month.Raza has not made commented about his captivity and return due to security concerns.“As Pakistan is going to polls on July 25, it has been marred by a lot of violence and over 300 people have lost lives. Under such circumstances, Raza’s return is being seen like a miracle by peace activists as he was a big votary of friendship with India. Many religious fundamentalist groups don’t like any talks of friendship with India,” said a Pakistan-based writer and activist on condition of anonymity.Aaghaz-e-Dosti India chapter convener Devika Mitral said she was extremely worried about Raza’s safety. She tweeted, “We wish all the missing persons should return safely so that their families could heave a sigh of relief.” Devika was constantly in touch with her Pakistan counterparts and did not miss peace initiatives.Pakistani peace activist Diep Saeeda said, “It is a matter of utmost satisfaction that finally Raza has returned. We all were worried for his well-being.”Pakistani author Ammara Ahmad also expressed happiness at Raza’s return.Devika said Raza’s return could put the peace initiatives on fast track and with renewed vigour.

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