Srinagar, A recent report by the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Srinagar, has highlighted a concerning increase in substance abuse and mental health issues in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), affecting over 14 lakh individuals.
According to Kashmir Media Service, IMHANS reported that in 2023, 1,560 patients sought treatment at their center in Srinagar, a significant decrease compared to 3,395 in 2022. The study indicates that various psychoactive substances are being used by over 14.09 lakh people aged between 10 and 75 in the region. Factors contributing to this alarming trend include the heavy deployment of Indian forces, human rights violations, political uncertainty, unemployment, socioeconomic challenges, and psychological stress.
The Out Patient Department (OPD) at IMHANS has seen a notable reduction in visitors in 2023, with 330 addicts admitted for treatment. The majority of these patients are male. The Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) at Jhelum Valley Medical College (JVC) Bemina also reported a decrease in new cases, with 563 individuals seeking treatment in 2023, down from 1,555 in the previous year.
Dr. Abdul Majid, Head of Psychiatry at SKIMS Medical College Bemina, cautioned against premature optimism, noting the ongoing challenges in addressing the crisis. He highlighted that a significant number of addicts belong to the transport and student communities, who often travel to other Indian states during winter and do not seek treatment.
The crisis extends beyond substance abuse, with most mental tension patients reportedly coming from rural areas where Indian troops and paramilitary forces conduct raids, impose curfews, and detain youths on questionable charges. These actions contribute to the rising mental health issues in the region.
The severity of the drug addiction and mental health crisis in IIOJK was brought to the attention of the Indian Parliament by National Conference Member Hasnain Masoodi. The Indian Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, in response to inquiries, acknowledged the extent of the problem, citing a study estimating that nearly three out of every 100 adults in Kashmir are dependent on illicit substances, primarily opioids.