Drug abuse is silently gripping Kashmir’s youth—over 70,000
affected.Recent crackdowns show action, but society must
respond too.Breaking the stigma is the first step toward saving
a generation,, MUSHTAQ BALA

MUSHTAQ BALA

In the quiet lanes of Kashmir’s towns and the bustling corners of its cities, a crisis is unfolding—largely unseen, often unspoken, yet deeply felt. Drug abuse, once considered a distant urban menace, has now embedded itself within the social fabric of the Valley, threatening to engulf an entire generation.
Recent crackdowns across the Valley, including the seizure of properties linked to narcotics trade in South Kashmir, underline both the scale of the problem and the urgency of response.
What makes this crisis particularly alarming is not just its spread, but its scale. Official figures reveal that more than 32,500 individuals have been registered for drug de-addiction treatment across Jammu and Kashmir since 2022, with Srinagar alone accounting for a significant share.
Even more concerning is the profile of those affected. Government data indicates that nearly 70,000 youth in J&K are involved in substance use, including around 50,000 heroin users, many of whom are alarmingly young.
A Disturbing Shift
The pattern of drug use has changed dramatically over the past decade. Traditional substances have given way to highly addictive synthetic and opioid drugs, particularly heroin. Studies highlight a growing trend of injectable drug use among young people—bringing with it severe health risks, including infectious diseases and long-term dependency.
The reasons are complex: unemployment, psychological stress, lack of recreational avenues, and the pressures of a rapidly changing society. For many, drugs become a means of escape—temporary relief from deeper anxieties.
The Human Cost
Behind every number is a story of loss. Families are breaking under the weight of addiction. Educational institutions are witnessing declining engagement. Communities are facing rising social instability.

The greatest tragedy, however, is the erosion of potential. Kashmir’s youth—once celebrated for their resilience and creativity—are at risk of losing their future to a crisis that thrives in silence.
Breaking the Silence
There are visible signs of response on the ground. The administration has intensified its anti-drug campaign under the “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan,” targeting both supply chains and rehabilitation efforts.
In a major recent crackdown, police in Bijbehara seized four residential houses worth crores in Anantnag, identifying them as proceeds of illegal narcotics trade linked to an NDPS case (FIR No. 50/2021). The properties, belonging to accused individuals from Tulkhan area, were attached as part of efforts to dismantle the financial networks sustaining drug trafficking.
Such measures reflect a shift towards not just arresting offenders, but also targeting the economic infrastructure behind the drug trade.
Stronger legal enforcement, awareness drives, and community outreach programs are being implemented. Yet enforcement alone cannot solve the problem.
Families must replace stigma with support. Schools and colleges must prioritise counselling. Religious leaders, educators, and media must work collectively to guide youth away from this path.
Towards a Collective Response
Drug abuse is not merely a law-and-order issue—it is a public health and societal challenge. Addressing it requires prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation working in tandem.
Equally critical is the creation of opportunities. Employment, education, and meaningful engagement can provide young people with a sense of purpose—something no substance can replace.
A Call to Conscience
Kashmir stands at a crossroads. The choices made today will define the future of its youth.This is not just a fight against drugs—it is a fight for identity, dignity, and the very soul of a generation.
The time to act is now.
Over 32,500 cases registered in de-addiction centres since 2022
Nearly 70,000 youth involved in substance use
Around 50,000 heroin users, many young
Increasing trend of injectable drug use among youth
Srinagar among the most affected districts
HELPLINE / SUPPORT
If you or someone you know needs help:
National Drug De-addiction Helpline: 14446
Tele-MANAS Mental Health Helpline: 14416
District Hospital / GMC Srinagar De-addiction Services
(Encourage early intervention. Recovery is possible.)

DrugFreeKashmir #KashmirPen #SaveOurYouth

Mushtaq Bala is Editor-in-Chief of Kashmir Pen, an award-winning filmmaker, cultural commentator, and advocate for peace through narrative media.