By: Tawheed Parvaiz Bhat

Kashmir is facing a growing but silent crisis — a crisis that is not only destroying the lives of individuals but tearing apart the social fabric of our community. Drug addiction, once limited to isolated cases, has now become a fashion among all age groups, accompanied by a dangerous increase in social isolation. Drug Addiction is now no Longer Just a Youth Problem: According to various studies conducted by independent agencies, drug addiction in Kashmir now affects people from as young as 14 years to as old as 75 years. This shows that the problem is not confined to the youth but has engulfed all segments of society.

There are two kinds of drug addicts today. Some individuals knowingly start using drugs, fully aware of the risks — they are the conscious addicts. Others fall into the trap unconsciously, driven by emotional distress, peer pressure, or curiosity — these are the unconscious addicts. Both categories are growing day by day.

A decade ago, common addictions in Kashmir mainly involved marijuana (locally known as charas) and, to some extent, alcohol. However, the drug scene has changed dramatically. Now, highly addictive and destructive substances like heroin, opium-based products, and illegal pharmaceutical drugs have flooded the valley. These drugs are far more lethal, leading not only to the destruction of personal health but also to the collapse of entire families.

An addict doesn’t just lose his health — he loses his wealth, dignity, respect, and position in the social structure. In the grand design of the universe, Allah the Almighty created millions of species. But among all creations,........

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