Online gambling has emerged as a grave issue in Kashmir, threatening the social fabric of the region and leaving countless families in distress. Yesterday, a video circulating on Facebook highlighted the devastating consequences of this addiction. A father of two from South Kashmir reportedly lost a staggering ₹90 lakhs in a game of "Teen Patti," an online card game that has gained alarming popularity in the region. Similar stories are surfacing where young boys have squandered lakhs of rupees, jeopardizing their futures and their families’ well-being.

The rise of online gambling can be attributed to the increasing penetration of smartphones and internet connectivity in Kashmir. In this digital era, mobile apps for gambling games like "Teen Patti" are marketed as easy ways to make quick money. Sitting in the comfort of their drawing rooms, people are lured by the illusion of effortless riches. This, however, is a trap—an enticing yet destructive sweet poison that exploits human greed and ignorance.
While it may seem like an occasional indulgence to some, the repeated participation in such games often spirals into addiction. This addiction not only drains financial resources but also damages mental health, erodes familial bonds, and leaves individuals vulnerable to depression and anxiety.
The consequences of online gambling extend far beyond the individual gambler. Families are left in turmoil as their loved ones fall prey to this vice. Parents are left distraught, spouses and children are burdened with debt, and the entire household is thrown into chaos. The allure of "easy money" often blinds people to the harsh reality: the house always wins. Gambling is not a game of consistent success; losses are inevitable and devastating.
Moreover, the younger generation, enamored by the glamour and instant gratification of online gambling, often neglects education and career aspirations, opting instead for a path that leads to ruin.
A pressing question remains: why do people, knowing the risks, continue to engage in online gambling? The answer lies in psychological factors such as denial, overconfidence, and the gambler’s fallacy—a mistaken belief that luck will eventually turn in their favor. The lack of awareness about the risks and the absence of proper counseling channels exacerbate the problem.

To tackle this growing menace, a multi-faceted approach is necessary

Workshops and Seminars

Educational institutions, religious organizations, and community leaders must organize workshops to highlight the dangers of online gambling.

Counseling Services

Professional counselors and helplines should be made accessible to those struggling with gambling addiction.

Strict Regulations

Authorities need to implement stricter laws to monitor and regulate online gambling platforms, ensuring that they do not prey on vulnerable individuals.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Media campaigns should aim to debunk myths about online gambling and emphasize its harmful consequences.

Parental Guidance

Parents must play an active role in monitoring their children’s online activities and guiding them away from such destructive pursuits.
Addressing this issue requires the concerted efforts of society, government, and individuals. Community elders, educators, and local influencers must step up to make bold interventions, counseling young people and urging them to avoid the pitfalls of online gambling.
Online gambling is not just a personal failure; it is a societal challenge. Let us unite to curb this menace before it destroys more lives and families. By fostering awareness and promoting alternative avenues for youth engagement, we can pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous Kashmir.
Let this be a call to action for all of us to intervene, educate, and protect our community from the silent destroyer that is online gambling.

Email:-------------------------------aasifdar46@gmail.com