Srinagar,22 June: In the heart of Kashmir, where the serene beauty of the Dal Lake reflects the towering Himalayas and the valley is adorned with vibrant saffron fields, a dark shadow looms over its picturesque landscape. This shadow is not cast by the mountains or the setting sun but by the insidious grip of drug abuse that has ensnared the youth of the region. Every year, June 26 marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The theme for 2024, “Empathy, Care, and Treatment,” could not be more pertinent for Kashmir. This year’s aim is to raise awareness about the importance of offering compassionate treatment and support to individuals struggling with addiction, emphasizing empathy and care over punishment and stigma.

In the small village of Kupwara, nestled in the northern part of Kashmir, 23-year-old Munasir Khan (name changed) grew up with dreams as vast as the mountains surrounding him. Munasir was known for his infectious laughter and his keen interest in cricket. However, the socio-political instability in Kashmir began to cast its long shadow over his life. The ongoing conflict, coupled with unemployment and lack of recreational activities, created a fertile ground for despair and disillusionment. Munasir’s story is not an isolated one. A study by the Government Psychiatric Hospital in Srinagar revealed that approximately 2.8% of Kashmir’s population is engaged in substance abuse, with opioids being the most commonly abused drugs. The majority of these users are young men, like Munasir, aged between 17 and 30 years old. The availability of drugs, combined with the socio-political turmoil, has exacerbated the crisis.

Munasir’s descent into drug abuse began innocuously enough. What started as occasional use of painkillers to cope with a sports injury soon spiraled into a full-blown addiction to opioids. The vibrant young man who once dreamt of representing Kashmir in cricket was now a shadow of his former self, lost in the haze of drug-induced oblivion. The impact of Munasir’s addiction was not confined to his personal life. His family, once a close-knit unit, was torn apart by the constant turmoil. His parents, both school teachers, were at their wit’s end, unable to comprehend the transformation in their son. The societal stigma associated with drug addiction further isolated them, as neighbors and relatives distanced themselves, unwilling to associate with a family marked by such a “shameful” affliction.

The impact of drug abuse in Kashmir extends beyond individual households, seeping into the very fabric of society. In the bustling city of Srinagar, the effects are palpable. Increased incidents of domestic violence, street crimes, and gang-related conflicts have become a grim reality. The serene neighborhoods, once safe havens, are now fraught with tension and insecurity. In one particularly tragic incident in Anantnag a man killed mother and three others and injured seven when he was drunk. In Sopore, a young man under the influence of drugs fatally attacked his parents during a heated argument. The community was left in shock, grappling with the horror of such an act. In another instance, rival gangs involved in the drug trade clashed violently in the heart of Srinagar, resulting in multiple injuries and a heightened sense of fear among the residents.

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Ahmed began to confront the underlying issues that had led to his addiction. Through therapy sessions, he learned coping mechanisms and strategies to deal with the pressures and stressors of life. Ahmed’s story of recovery is just one among many. In the southern town of Anantnag, Sara (name changed), a young woman in her early twenties, faced a similar struggle. Her addiction to prescription drugs had alienated her from her family and friends. When she finally sought help at a local NGO, she was at her lowest point, physically and emotionally drained.

The journey to recovery was arduous. Sara’s initial days at the de-addiction center were marked by severe withdrawal symptoms and bouts of depression. But the unwavering support from the center’s staff and the camaraderie with fellow recovering addicts gave her the strength to persevere. Through a combination of medical treatment, counseling, and vocational training, Sara gradually rebuilt her life. In another part of Kashmir, Farooq (name changed for privacy), a former gang member involved in the drug trade, found redemption through rehabilitation. His journey was fraught with violence and crime, but a near-death experience during a gang clash served as a wake-up call. Seeking a way out, Farooq turned to the local rehabilitation center. Through their holistic approach to rehabilitation, Farooq not only overcame his addiction but also found a new purpose in life. He now works as a mentor, helping at-risk youth steer clear of the path he once trod.

This year’s campaign highlights the importance of treating people who use drugs with empathy and respect. The aim is to help individuals realize how drugs can damage their personal, social, and spiritual lives, without stigmatizing or punishing them harshly. Promoting language and attitudes that create a healthy, supportive atmosphere is crucial. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) emphasizes the need to remove stigma and adopt a people-centered approach, focusing on human rights, compassion, and evidence-based practices. This aligns with the global message of treating people with empathy and care, rather than with punitive measures.in Kashmir, these principles are being embraced by various stakeholders. Schools and colleges are incorporating drug education into their curricula, focusing on prevention and early intervention. Community leaders and religious institutions are also playing a crucial role, spreading the message of compassion and support for those struggling with addiction.

Community involvement is vital in combating drug abuse. Creating a supportive environment that fosters empathy and care can significantly

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approach has proven effective in breaking down barriers and creating an open dialogue among students.As Kashmir moves forward, the combined efforts of the government, NGOs, educational institutions, and the community are crucial in combating the drug crisis. The focus on empathy, care, and treatment offers a beacon of hope for those struggling with addiction. By fostering a supportive and compassionate environment, Kashmir can pave the way for a brighter, drug-free future for its youth.

The stories of transformation, like those of Ahmed, Sara, and Farooq, serve as powerful reminders of what is possible when individuals are given the support and care they need. Their journeys inspire others to seek help and reinforce the importance of treating those with addiction with the dignity and respect they deserve.In the tranquil valleys and bustling towns of Kashmir, the message of empathy and care continues to resonate, offering hope and healing to those affected by drug abuse. As the world observes the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2024, Kashmir stands as a testament to the power of compassion and the potential for transformation in the face of adversity.(CNI)