Drug Crisis in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K)
J&K is facing a significant challenge with drug addiction, affecting both men and women, though women are often overlooked in this crisis.
Statistics of Drug Use
- In 2022, around 1.08 lakh men and 36,000 women reported using cannabis.
- 5.34 lakh men and 8,000 women consumed opioids.
- 1.6 lakh men and 8,000 women used sedatives.
- 1.27 lakh men and 7,000 women were addicted to inhalants.
Challenges Faced by Women
- Women make up 7% of drug users in J&K, equating to approximately 62,000 individuals.
- Contributing factors include anxiety, political unrest, loss in conflicts, unemployment, marital issues, and gender-based pressures.
- Women are often introduced to drugs by male relatives or friends and may be exploited in drug peddling.
- Lack of gender-sensitive infrastructure and support exacerbates the issue, with no women-only rehabilitation centers and few female counselors.
- Social stigma and structural failures in recognizing gender-specific needs in treatment add to the problem.
Government and Society's Role
- Only 10 addiction treatment facilities in J&K out of 46 nationwide; only one rehabilitation center in J&K.
- Efforts to curb drug supply include property attachment of drug peddlers.
- Need for public awareness campaigns to view addiction as a chronic brain disorder rather than a moral failing.
- Importance of building women’s support groups to foster trust and solidarity.
Recommendations
- Increase vigilance on drug supply routes, such as highways like Udhampur.
- Provide more gender-sensitive infrastructure to ensure privacy and empathy in treatment.
- Government recognition of drug addiction as a public health emergency requiring engagement and separate rehabilitation for women.
