The crisis reflects a deeper moral and spiritual breakdown. The families, religious institutions, and society must reclaim their role in nurturing youth.
Amaar Mir
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) clearly warned the Ummah about the destructive nature of intoxicants, declaring that “Every intoxicant is Khamr and every Khamr is haram” (Sahi Miuslim). A sharp rise in drug abuse among adolescents, followed closely by an alarming increase in suicide cases. This growing crisis has quietly infiltrated homes, families, and communities, posing a grave threat to the region’s future.
Drug abuse among adolescents has emerged as a pressing social catastrophe in Kashmir. Young boys and girls, at an age meant for learning, growth, and character-building, are falling prey to intoxicants that damage their physical health, mental stability, and moral compass. The consequences are devastating. Day by day, reports surface of young individuals losing their lives, some dying quietly in their sleep after consuming drugs, never waking up to see another morning. In contrast, others end their lives by hanging, poisoning, or engaging in reckless and fatal activities.
What makes these tragedies even more painful is that many of these adolescents come from families where parents genuinely try to guide them. Parents advise, warn, and counsel their children with concern and sincerity. However, in many cases, adolescents have become so intolerant and emotionally fragile that even well-meaning advice is perceived as pressure or oppression. A simple scolding, a reminder, or guidance meant for their well-being sometimes becomes the trigger for extreme reactions, leading them toward self-harm or suicide. This reflects not just rebellion, but a deeper psychological and spiritual breakdown.
One of the foremost concerns behind this growing crisis is the lack of proper guidance and nurturing in a balanced, compassionate manner. While parents are responsible for providing food, shelter, and education, Islam also places strong emphasis on moral and spiritual upbringing. Allah says in the Qur’an: “O you who believe! Save yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is men and stones” (Surah At-Tahrim 66:6). This verse highlights that parental responsibility extends beyond material needs; it includes safeguarding children from moral deviation and spiritual destruction.
Another alarming factor is the gradual distancing of adolescents from Islamic values and identity. When children are not grounded in faith, prayer, and ethical discipline, they become more vulnerable to harmful influences. Drugs offer a temporary escape from stress, frustration, and societal pressure, but ultimately lead to dependency, depression, and loss of purpose. Islam strictly prohibits intoxicants because they cloud judgment, weaken self-control, and open doors to greater sins. The spread of drugs among adolescents is therefore not only a social failure but a clear violation of divine guidance.
Educational neglect further deepens this crisis. Many adolescents involved in drug abuse slowly disengage from their studies. Academic failure, school dropouts, and lack of skills leave them unemployed and financially dependent. When they fail to earn or contribute meaningfully, frustration and feelings of worthlessness take root. This emotional burden, combined with addiction, often pushes them toward suicidal thoughts. Islam, however, encourages productivity, learning, and striving. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim” (Ibn Majah). Ignoring education deprives adolescents of dignity, direction, and hope.
Equally concerning is the absence of constructive engagement and healthy activities. Many adolescents spend their time in unproductive company, excessive screen use, or environments that normalise drug use. Without sports, creative outlets, community involvement, or mentorship, idle minds become easy targets for destructive habits. When difficulties arise, these adolescents lack coping mechanisms rooted in patience, faith, and resilience. The Qur’an repeatedly warns against despair, stating: “Do not despair of the mercy of Allah” (Surah Az-Zumar 39:53). Yet despair has become a defining emotion among many troubled youths.
The role of society and religious institutions cannot be overlooked. Silence, stigma, and denial have allowed this crisis to grow unchecked. Drug abuse and suicide must be addressed openly from pulpits, classrooms, and community forums. Mosques, scholars, and elders should actively engage adolescents, offering guidance that is firm yet compassionate. Counselling services, rehabilitation centres, and youth support programs are urgently needed to address both addiction and mental health from an Islamic and psychological perspective.
The rising drug abuse and suicides among adolescents in Kashmir represent a silent but deadly emergency. These young lives are a trust (amaanah) from Allah Azawajal, and neglecting their guidance spiritually, emotionally, and educationally has catastrophic consequences. By returning to the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah, strengthening parental involvement, prioritising education, and creating supportive community structures, Kashmir can begin to rescue its adolescents from this dark path. Protecting the youth today is not merely a social responsibility; it is a moral, religious, and collective obligation.
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