Opinion | Community role in dealing with drug abuse among youth of J&K

Drug abuse has become one of the most distressing social concerns in Jammu and Kashmir over the last few years. The serene, picturesque Jammu and Kashmir, which once boasted of its peacefulness and warmth within its social fabric, is now grappling with a silent yet deadly enemy that is causing irreparable harm to its younger generation. From urban to rural, addiction has spread, inflicting wounds on families and taking away the potential of a generation that should have been the hope of tomorrow. In this fight, the community stands at the forefront because no government or institution can single-handedly tackle such an entrenched problem. It is only through collective awareness, empathy, and a synchronized movement by the people that a genuine impact can be created.

The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have traditionally lived in an atmosphere of uncertainty and a lack of employment opportunities. Frustration, identity crises, and emotional disturbances are the common problems most of the youth’s face. In such an environment, drugs show their way. The availability of narcotics across borders, the influence of peers, and the illusion of temporary relief make addiction spread rapidly. But beyond these causes lies a shared responsibility-of families, religious institutions, schools, neighbourhood elders, and local organizations-to guide young minds before they fall prey to this trap

The family is the first and most important wall of protection against drug abuse. Parents, siblings, and guardians must not wait until signs of addiction avail themselves before paying attention. The atmosphere at home should be one in which children feel safe to talk about their problems. Communication gaps often push youngsters to seek solace elsewhere. When parents replace fear with understanding, children are less likely to hide their struggles. Simple gestures—merely listening without being judgmental, time spent together, and noticing behavioural changes—can save a life. In too many Kashmiri families, silence is mistaken for discipline, but silence fuels addiction. Open hearts build stronger children.

Religious leaders also wield immense influence in shaping social values. Sermons and Friday khutbas in mosques, shrines, and congregations of people can create awareness regarding the spiritual and social aftermath of drug abuse. Like all faiths, Islam considers purity of body and soul and forbids self-destruction. When imams, preachers, and community elders speak candidly about the problem, the stigma is broken. Most of the youth who are addicted avoid seeking help because they fear being labelled as sinners or criminals. A compassionate tone from religious institutions can turn shame into hope.

It is now imperative that educational institutions rise beyond academics. Schools and colleges are the places where young people spend most of their time, and they must become safe zones for early intervention. Teachers, counsellors, and even peers can be trained to identify warning signs-sudden drop in performance, absenteeism, change in mood or appearance-and to respond sensitively. Instead of suspension or punishment, what students need is understanding and referral to help. Awareness campaigns, discussions, and youth clubs can give students healthier outlets for stress and creativity. A student who feels seen and valued rarely looks for escape in drugs.

Community organizations, NGOs, and local health departments also have a major role to play. They can organize counselling camps, street plays, sports events, and awareness drives in every mohalla and village. In many areas of Jammu and Kashmir, youth clubs and mohalla committees have already begun organizing football tournaments, trekking camps, and cultural evenings to keep the younger generation engaged. When youth are given space to express their energy positively, their minds move away from destructive habits. Rehabilitation centres, too, must be community-supported, not hidden away as symbols of shame. Every addict deserves treatment, not judgment.

The media in Jammu and Kashmir can use its reach to spread real stories of recovery rather than sensational headlines. Many recovered addicts are willing to share their journeys if given dignity and privacy. When such stories are published or broadcast, they encourage others to seek help and show that recovery is possible. Instead of merely highlighting police seizures and arrests, the focus should shift to prevention, counselling, and rehabilitation.

While law enforcement agencies have a role in controlling supply, community vigilance can reduce demand. Residents need to cooperate with police-not out of fear but in partnership. Anonymous tip lines and local awareness groups can help report drug peddlers without putting citizens in jeopardy. But equally important is that enforcement remain humane, and addicted youth be treated as patients, not criminals. Focus must be to rehabilitate, not ruin lives through punishment.

Women’s groups and mothers have been acting as agents of change in many of the Kashmir towns. They create an emotional network, keep an eye on neighbourhood youth, and give mothers a platform to share their apprehensions. In the past, women’s community-based vigilance has helped reduce domestic violence and the rate of school dropouts; the same zeal can help combat addiction. When mothers unite, they can rebuild the moral strength of an entire generation.

The community, too, must pitch in by demanding accountability from institutions. Hospitals need better de-addiction facilities, psychologists must be available even in small towns, and the education department must ensure moral and mental health education. But at the same time, the youth themselves must be trusted and involved. They are not the problem; they are the solution. Youth-led campaigns, peer mentorship programs, and social media activism can turn awareness into a movement. When a young person speaks to another, the message carries more power than a thousand warnings from elders.

Jammu and Kashmir has always been a land of resilience. The people have rebuilt schools, restored peace, and revived culture despite decades of challenges. This is the same spirit required to eliminate the drug crisis. It takes courage to confront the problem, compassion to heal the wounds, and unity to safeguard the next generation. The community cannot be a silent spectator; every parent, teacher, imam, and neighbour must become a guardian of the youth. The fight against addiction is not fought in hospitals or courts alone-it begins in homes, classrooms, and the hearts of people.

It is only when a community comes together that hope is rekindled. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir deserve more than mere survival; they deserve purpose, dignity, and the ability to grow free from addiction. Each step—each conversation, each act of care—can light a candle against this darkness. In the end, it is not how a society punishes its broken members that defines it but how it helps them heal. The job of a community is not just to fight drugs; it is to reclaim its future.

aaliyasyedkmr@gmail.com