Adv. Nadeem Khaliq
Jammu & Kashmir today stands at the crossroads of a grave and rapidly escalating crisis—drug addiction. What began as a concerning social issue a few years ago has now spiralled into a full-blown public health emergency, threatening the very fabric of society. The sharp rise in the number of drug users over a short span paints a deeply disturbing picture that demands urgent attention.
In 2019, approximately 70,000 individuals in the Kashmir Valley were identified as drug addicts. Even then, the numbers raised alarm among health experts and policymakers. However, the situation has worsened dramatically since. As of April 2026, official figures indicate that over 5.4 lakh (540,000) individuals in Jammu & Kashmir are opioid users, as stated by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, in the Rajya Sabha. This exponential rise highlights not only the spread of addiction but also the growing inability to contain it effectively.
A Much Larger Population at Risk
While the number of opioid users alone is staggering, the broader picture is even more alarming. Reports from April 2026 reveal that more than 1.35 million (13.5 lakh) people in the Union Territory are affected by substance dependence. This includes users of heroin, cannabis, sedatives, and other narcotic substances. Shockingly, this figure has nearly doubled since 2022, indicating a rapidly accelerating crisis engulfing more individuals each year.
Among all substances, heroin has emerged as the most dominant and destructive drug. It accounts for nearly 90–95% of dependency cases in the Kashmir Valley, making it the primary driver of addiction. Its easy availability, highly addictive nature, and devastating health consequences have made it a major threat, particularly among the youth.
The Alarming Impact on Youth and Minors
Perhaps the most distressing aspect of this crisis is its impact on young people. According to recent estimates, more than 1.6 lakh minors between the ages of 10 and 17 are already involved in drug use. This reflects not only early exposure but also a dangerous normalisation of substance abuse among adolescents.
Educational institutions are witnessing declining academic performance, rising dropout rates, and behavioural issues among students. Many young individuals, driven by curiosity, peer pressure, or emotional distress, fall into the trap of addiction—often without fully understanding its long-term consequences.
Underlying Causes of the Crisis
The reasons behind this alarming rise are complex and multifaceted. One of the key factors is the increasing availability of drugs, particularly through cross-border trafficking. Authorities have linked the surge in narcotics inflow to narco-terrorism, where the illegal drug trade is used to fund destabilising activities. This adds a serious security dimension to the already critical social issue.
Additionally, unemployment, psychological stress, lack of recreational and developmental opportunities, and social instability have all contributed to the growing vulnerability of youth. The stigma surrounding addiction further complicates the issue, as many individuals hesitate to seek help, allowing their condition to worsen.
Impact on Society and Healthcare Systems
The consequences of widespread drug addiction extend far beyond individual users. Families are often left devastated, facing emotional trauma, financial strain, and social isolation. Communities are witnessing a gradual erosion of trust and stability.
Healthcare systems are under increasing pressure, with a growing demand for de-addiction and rehabilitation services. Drug-related illnesses, mental health disorders, and crime linked to substance abuse are also rising, compounding the burden on already stretched public resources.
The Urgent Need for a Comprehensive Response
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-pronged and sustained approach. Strengthening law enforcement to curb drug trafficking is essential, particularly along vulnerable border areas. However, supply-side control alone cannot solve the problem.
Equal emphasis must be placed on prevention and rehabilitation. Awareness campaigns need to be intensified to educate people—especially the youth—about the dangers of drug abuse. Schools and colleges should incorporate counselling services and life-skills education to help students cope with stress and peer pressure.
The expansion of de-addiction centres and access to mental health services is critical. Rehabilitation must be made affordable, accessible, and stigma-free. Society must begin to treat addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgement.
A Collective Responsibility
The rise from 70,000 drug addicts in 2019 to over 5 lakh opioid users and 1.35 million substance-affected individuals in 2026 is a stark warning. It reflects a crisis no longer confined to isolated pockets but one that has permeated every layer of society.
Jammu & Kashmir now faces a critical moment. The choices made today will determine the future of its youth and the stability of its society. Combating this crisis requires the collective responsibility of the government, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, educational institutions, families, and citizens alike. With timely intervention, strong policies, and community participation, it is still possible to reverse this dangerous trend. But the time to act is now.
