BREAKING NEWS

01-08-2025     3 رجب 1440

Breaking the Chains – Striving for a Drug Free Kashmir

Its proximity to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The porous borders facilitate the smuggling of narcotics, while political turmoil complicates the enforcement of anti-drug laws. Additionally, some militant groups may participate in the Drug abuse refers to using chemicals to create pleasurable effects on the brain

January 06, 2025 | ER. Saliq Hammid Wani

The issues of drug abuse and trafficking in Kashmir are deeply intertwined with the region’s complex political and socio-economic problems. While challenges remain, concerted efforts at improving law enforcement, providing rehabilitation, creating employment opportunities, and fostering international cooperation could pave the way for a healthier, more secure future. Tackling these problems will require a multi-dimensional approach that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of drug abuse and trafficking in the region.

Kashmir, a region located in strategic northern India and Pakistan, has faced multiple socio-economic challenges, including drug abuse and illicit trade. These issues have been exacerbated by the ongoing political and security tensions, growing unemployment, particularly in Kashmir, resulting in significant impacts on public health, societal well-being, cultural ethos and economic development.
Working as State President, National Human Rights and Crime Control Bureau, Human Rights Organization, New Delhi and State Secretary, Human Rights and Social Justice Mission, Human Rights organization, Mumbai, India I have firsthand experience of case studies of the persons and families who have over the period of time suffered on account drug trafficking and drug abuse in the various parts of the valley.
As the State President of the National Human Rights and Crime Control Bureau (NHRCB) in New Delhi, I had an opportunity to lead the team of Kashmir in drug and,crime control, educate the public about drug abuse, and protect human rights in cases of crime and drug abuse. I had also opportunity to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to ensure eradication of drug abuse and respect to human rights, and in creation of rehabilitation and reintegration programs for drug offenders. During these engagements we also had extensive public out-reaches and worked with the community through youth outreach and participation programs and monitored crime rates. We also had opportunity to participate in policy formulation, promote drug control and promoting justice at various levels.
Drug addiction is a critical issue in Kashmir, where substances like heroin, brown sugar, and synthetic drugs are prevalent. The region has some of the highest addiction rates in India, fueled by ongoing political unrest and insecurity. This atmosphere of distress drives many, particularly the youth,
to use drugs as a coping mechanism. Unemployment and a lack of opportunities make the young population particularly susceptible, while easy access to drugs from nearby production areas exacerbates the problem. The consequences of drug abuse are severe, impacting both health and society. Individuals face physical and mental health issues, such as addiction and increased risk of diseases like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. Families suffer as drug abuse disrupts family structures and heightens crime, leading to significant social instability. Economically, the costs of addiction and rehabilitation, coupled with lost productivity, place a heavy burden on families and the region.
Kashmir is strategically located along major drug trafficking routes due to its proximity to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The porous borders facilitate the smuggling of narcotics, while political turmoil complicates the enforcement of anti-drug laws. Additionally, some militant groups may participate in the Drug abuse refers to using chemicals to create pleasurable effects on the brain. Various types of drugs include stimulants like cocaine, depressants such as alcohol, opium-related painkillers like heroin, and hallucinogens such as LSD. There are over 190 million drug users worldwide, with a rising problem, especially among young adults under 30. In Kashmir valley, around 70,000 are drug addicts, with about 31% being women. The youth, particularly those aged 17-35, are significantly affected, with around 90% of abusers in that age group. Many young people turn to drugs due to turmoil in the state, but other factors like unemployment and relationship issues are also causes. In recent years, about 250,000 young people in the Valley are part of the addicted population, and few de-addiction centers exist to help them. A report showed that heroin abuse jumped from 15% in 2016 to 90%. The cost of heroin is between Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,000 per gram. In 2020, 1,132 drug-related cases were recorded, involving 1,672 people in drug smuggling. Authorities seized over 152 kilograms of heroin along with various other drugs and substances. In the Handwara drug case, law enforcement recovered 21 kilograms of heroin worth Rs 100 crores. Srinagar and Anantnag districts are reported to sell drugs worth Rs 3. 7 crores daily, with around 17,000 additional addicts in these areas alone. Most drug abusers at a de-addiction center fall between 18-35 years old. The flow of patients has increased significantly, from 633 cases in 2019 to 1,978. While 81% of these cases are male, the number of female drug abusers is also rising. The police have been proactive against drug smuggling, with increasing seizures and arrests under drug laws.
Teen drug abuse leads to severe health issues, including emotional problems such as anxiety and depression, behavioral issues, addiction risks, learning difficulties, diseases from needle use, and brain damage. Prevention activities aim to reduce substance abuse and its consequences by decreasing supply and demand. Effective prevention can modify abuse trends and help diminish rising rates. drug trade to finance their operations, linking public health issues with national security challenges.
Drug abuse or substance abuse refers to the use of certain chemicals for the purpose of creating pleasurable effects on the brain. There are many types of drugs such as stimulants (e.g. cocaine) depressants (e.g. alcohol)opium-related painkillers ( heroin)hallucinogens ( LSD) which effects a human body .There are over 190 million drug users around the world and the problem has been increasing at alarming rates, especially among young adults under the age of 30. According to a report published by United Nation, Drug Control Programme (UNDCP), in Kashmir valley, around 70 thousand people are drug addicts alone. Among them, approximately 31% are women. Particularly, the youth of Kashmir is, involved in drug addiction as reported by Government Psychiatric Hospital Srinagar. Around 90% drug abusers belong to the age group of 17-35.
A significant number of young people have turned to drugs, influenced by the turmoil in the state. However, there are other reasons for this epidemic, such as unemployment and relationship issues. Studies indicate that about 250,000 youth in the Valley are addicted or affected by drug use. The available de-addiction centers are struggling to provide the necessary medical support. In 2016, heroin abuse was at 15%, but it has now surged to 90%, with one gram costing around Rs 3,000-4,000. In 2020, the Jammu and Kashmir police registered 1,132 drug-related cases and seized various drugs, including 152.18 kg of heroin and significant amounts of charas, opium, and other substances. The Handwara drug case exemplifies the situation, where 21 kg of heroin valued at Rs 100 crore was recovered from a drug syndicate. Reports suggest that in Srinagar and Anantnag districts, drugs worth Rs 3.7 crore are sold daily, and the number of drug addicts in these districts has reached 17,000.
Data from the Srinagar Police Control Room's de-addiction center shows that most drug abusers are aged 18-35 years. Patient registrations at the center have markedly increased, from 633 cases in 2019 to 1,978. Among these, 81% are male and over 19% are female, indicating a rising number of female
drug users. The de-addiction center, established in 2008, has treated more than 10,000 individuals. Increased drug seizures and rising cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act illustrate the efforts of law enforcement to combat this issue.
Drug abuse poses serious health risks, especially for teenagers. It can lead to addiction, brain damage, emotional issues like anxiety and depression, and behavioral problems. Teens who start using drugs early are more likely to face addiction later. Drug use can impair learning and memory, and sharing needles increases the risk of diseases like HIV and Hepatitis. To combat these issues, solutions include strengthening law enforcement through enhanced border security, better regional coordination, and community-based rehabilitation programs that focus on psychological and vocational support. Raising awareness about the dangers of drug use among the youth is essential, along with viewing addiction as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. Economic empowerment through job creation and promoting local industries can address the root causes of addiction. Lastly, international cooperation is vital to effectively tackle drug trafficking, and community support networks can facilitate drug prevention and rehabilitation efforts.
To address drug issues in Kashmir, a comprehensive strategy is essential, encompassing law enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, and community involvement. Key actions include enhancing border control and surveillance, training law enforcement, promoting public awareness through educational campaigns, and involving community leaders to discourage drug use. Establishing rehabilitation centers for detoxification, counseling, and support is vital, along with strengthening drug-related legislation and enforcement efforts. Engaging youth in sports and cultural activities can create safe environments to deter drug use. Additionally, ongoing research on drug abuse prevalence is necessary to target vulnerable populations. Promoting national and international collaboration on narcotics control will strengthen counter-narcotics strategies, ultimately fostering a healthier society in Kashmir. To prevent substance abuse, efforts needs to be focused on reducing both supply and demand for drugs. This includes actions like destroying drug crops and prosecuting traffickers, while also controlling prescriptions. Demand reduction involves programs that address the underlying causes of substance use and promote protective measures, highlighting the importance of an integrated approach as recognized in the
narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances Act (NDPS Act) and United Nations.

 

Email:------------------------saliqwani109@gmail.com

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Breaking the Chains – Striving for a Drug Free Kashmir

Its proximity to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The porous borders facilitate the smuggling of narcotics, while political turmoil complicates the enforcement of anti-drug laws. Additionally, some militant groups may participate in the Drug abuse refers to using chemicals to create pleasurable effects on the brain

January 06, 2025 | ER. Saliq Hammid Wani

The issues of drug abuse and trafficking in Kashmir are deeply intertwined with the region’s complex political and socio-economic problems. While challenges remain, concerted efforts at improving law enforcement, providing rehabilitation, creating employment opportunities, and fostering international cooperation could pave the way for a healthier, more secure future. Tackling these problems will require a multi-dimensional approach that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of drug abuse and trafficking in the region.

Kashmir, a region located in strategic northern India and Pakistan, has faced multiple socio-economic challenges, including drug abuse and illicit trade. These issues have been exacerbated by the ongoing political and security tensions, growing unemployment, particularly in Kashmir, resulting in significant impacts on public health, societal well-being, cultural ethos and economic development.
Working as State President, National Human Rights and Crime Control Bureau, Human Rights Organization, New Delhi and State Secretary, Human Rights and Social Justice Mission, Human Rights organization, Mumbai, India I have firsthand experience of case studies of the persons and families who have over the period of time suffered on account drug trafficking and drug abuse in the various parts of the valley.
As the State President of the National Human Rights and Crime Control Bureau (NHRCB) in New Delhi, I had an opportunity to lead the team of Kashmir in drug and,crime control, educate the public about drug abuse, and protect human rights in cases of crime and drug abuse. I had also opportunity to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to ensure eradication of drug abuse and respect to human rights, and in creation of rehabilitation and reintegration programs for drug offenders. During these engagements we also had extensive public out-reaches and worked with the community through youth outreach and participation programs and monitored crime rates. We also had opportunity to participate in policy formulation, promote drug control and promoting justice at various levels.
Drug addiction is a critical issue in Kashmir, where substances like heroin, brown sugar, and synthetic drugs are prevalent. The region has some of the highest addiction rates in India, fueled by ongoing political unrest and insecurity. This atmosphere of distress drives many, particularly the youth,
to use drugs as a coping mechanism. Unemployment and a lack of opportunities make the young population particularly susceptible, while easy access to drugs from nearby production areas exacerbates the problem. The consequences of drug abuse are severe, impacting both health and society. Individuals face physical and mental health issues, such as addiction and increased risk of diseases like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. Families suffer as drug abuse disrupts family structures and heightens crime, leading to significant social instability. Economically, the costs of addiction and rehabilitation, coupled with lost productivity, place a heavy burden on families and the region.
Kashmir is strategically located along major drug trafficking routes due to its proximity to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The porous borders facilitate the smuggling of narcotics, while political turmoil complicates the enforcement of anti-drug laws. Additionally, some militant groups may participate in the Drug abuse refers to using chemicals to create pleasurable effects on the brain. Various types of drugs include stimulants like cocaine, depressants such as alcohol, opium-related painkillers like heroin, and hallucinogens such as LSD. There are over 190 million drug users worldwide, with a rising problem, especially among young adults under 30. In Kashmir valley, around 70,000 are drug addicts, with about 31% being women. The youth, particularly those aged 17-35, are significantly affected, with around 90% of abusers in that age group. Many young people turn to drugs due to turmoil in the state, but other factors like unemployment and relationship issues are also causes. In recent years, about 250,000 young people in the Valley are part of the addicted population, and few de-addiction centers exist to help them. A report showed that heroin abuse jumped from 15% in 2016 to 90%. The cost of heroin is between Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,000 per gram. In 2020, 1,132 drug-related cases were recorded, involving 1,672 people in drug smuggling. Authorities seized over 152 kilograms of heroin along with various other drugs and substances. In the Handwara drug case, law enforcement recovered 21 kilograms of heroin worth Rs 100 crores. Srinagar and Anantnag districts are reported to sell drugs worth Rs 3. 7 crores daily, with around 17,000 additional addicts in these areas alone. Most drug abusers at a de-addiction center fall between 18-35 years old. The flow of patients has increased significantly, from 633 cases in 2019 to 1,978. While 81% of these cases are male, the number of female drug abusers is also rising. The police have been proactive against drug smuggling, with increasing seizures and arrests under drug laws.
Teen drug abuse leads to severe health issues, including emotional problems such as anxiety and depression, behavioral issues, addiction risks, learning difficulties, diseases from needle use, and brain damage. Prevention activities aim to reduce substance abuse and its consequences by decreasing supply and demand. Effective prevention can modify abuse trends and help diminish rising rates. drug trade to finance their operations, linking public health issues with national security challenges.
Drug abuse or substance abuse refers to the use of certain chemicals for the purpose of creating pleasurable effects on the brain. There are many types of drugs such as stimulants (e.g. cocaine) depressants (e.g. alcohol)opium-related painkillers ( heroin)hallucinogens ( LSD) which effects a human body .There are over 190 million drug users around the world and the problem has been increasing at alarming rates, especially among young adults under the age of 30. According to a report published by United Nation, Drug Control Programme (UNDCP), in Kashmir valley, around 70 thousand people are drug addicts alone. Among them, approximately 31% are women. Particularly, the youth of Kashmir is, involved in drug addiction as reported by Government Psychiatric Hospital Srinagar. Around 90% drug abusers belong to the age group of 17-35.
A significant number of young people have turned to drugs, influenced by the turmoil in the state. However, there are other reasons for this epidemic, such as unemployment and relationship issues. Studies indicate that about 250,000 youth in the Valley are addicted or affected by drug use. The available de-addiction centers are struggling to provide the necessary medical support. In 2016, heroin abuse was at 15%, but it has now surged to 90%, with one gram costing around Rs 3,000-4,000. In 2020, the Jammu and Kashmir police registered 1,132 drug-related cases and seized various drugs, including 152.18 kg of heroin and significant amounts of charas, opium, and other substances. The Handwara drug case exemplifies the situation, where 21 kg of heroin valued at Rs 100 crore was recovered from a drug syndicate. Reports suggest that in Srinagar and Anantnag districts, drugs worth Rs 3.7 crore are sold daily, and the number of drug addicts in these districts has reached 17,000.
Data from the Srinagar Police Control Room's de-addiction center shows that most drug abusers are aged 18-35 years. Patient registrations at the center have markedly increased, from 633 cases in 2019 to 1,978. Among these, 81% are male and over 19% are female, indicating a rising number of female
drug users. The de-addiction center, established in 2008, has treated more than 10,000 individuals. Increased drug seizures and rising cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act illustrate the efforts of law enforcement to combat this issue.
Drug abuse poses serious health risks, especially for teenagers. It can lead to addiction, brain damage, emotional issues like anxiety and depression, and behavioral problems. Teens who start using drugs early are more likely to face addiction later. Drug use can impair learning and memory, and sharing needles increases the risk of diseases like HIV and Hepatitis. To combat these issues, solutions include strengthening law enforcement through enhanced border security, better regional coordination, and community-based rehabilitation programs that focus on psychological and vocational support. Raising awareness about the dangers of drug use among the youth is essential, along with viewing addiction as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. Economic empowerment through job creation and promoting local industries can address the root causes of addiction. Lastly, international cooperation is vital to effectively tackle drug trafficking, and community support networks can facilitate drug prevention and rehabilitation efforts.
To address drug issues in Kashmir, a comprehensive strategy is essential, encompassing law enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, and community involvement. Key actions include enhancing border control and surveillance, training law enforcement, promoting public awareness through educational campaigns, and involving community leaders to discourage drug use. Establishing rehabilitation centers for detoxification, counseling, and support is vital, along with strengthening drug-related legislation and enforcement efforts. Engaging youth in sports and cultural activities can create safe environments to deter drug use. Additionally, ongoing research on drug abuse prevalence is necessary to target vulnerable populations. Promoting national and international collaboration on narcotics control will strengthen counter-narcotics strategies, ultimately fostering a healthier society in Kashmir. To prevent substance abuse, efforts needs to be focused on reducing both supply and demand for drugs. This includes actions like destroying drug crops and prosecuting traffickers, while also controlling prescriptions. Demand reduction involves programs that address the underlying causes of substance use and promote protective measures, highlighting the importance of an integrated approach as recognized in the
narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances Act (NDPS Act) and United Nations.

 

Email:------------------------saliqwani109@gmail.com


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