In terms of inpatient admissions—cases requiring prolonged medical and psychiatric care—996 individuals were admitted in 2022, 986 in 2023, and 988 in 2024

Almost 26,000 drug addicts sought treatment in last 3 years___Representational image

Srinagar, Apr 17: In a concerning trend pointing to a worsening drug abuse crisis in Jammu and Kashmir, official data accessed by Greater Kashmir reveals that over 25,900 individuals sought outpatient treatment for substance use disorders between 2022 and 2024. Furthermore, more than 1,600 cases required inpatient care, underscoring the gravity of addiction-related health issues in the Union Territory.

According to official figures outpatient (OPD) cases stood at 9,775 in 2022, 8,700 in 2023, and 8,925 in 2024, indicating a consistent number of affected individuals each year. In terms of inpatient admissions—cases requiring prolonged medical and psychiatric care—996 individuals were admitted in 2022, 986 in 2023, and 988 in 2024.

“Substance abuse is not just a health issue—it’s a societal one,” officials said, adding that these numbers are only the tip of the iceberg, with many cases going unreported due to stigma and lack of awareness. “This consistent trend of high OPD and IPD admissions reflects the deep-rooted nature of the problem,” officials said, adding that they are seeing more young people—especially from rural areas—falling into the trap of drugs, especially opioids and psychotropic substances.

To counter the spiraling crisis, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has been implementing the Drug De-Addiction Policy (2019) across both divisions. As part of its infrastructure buildup, 20 de-addiction centres are now functional—11 in Kashmir and 9 in Jammu, with three more operated by NGOs in Rajouri, Kulgam, and Bandipora.

Officials added that the government has adopted a “multi-pronged approach” involving healthcare, law enforcement, and community participation. “We are taking strong administrative action against illegal drug distribution,” they said. “In 2024 alone, we have suspended 213 drug sale licenses and cancelled 13 due to violations involving psychotropic substances. This sends a clear message—there will be zero tolerance.”

Police and other agencies have also ramped up their crackdown on drug trafficking and peddling, particularly in border districts like Kupwara, Baramulla, and Poonch. In many cases, narcotics have been found to be smuggled from across the Line of Control (LoC), prompting greater surveillance and coordination with national anti-narcotics forces. A senior police officer from the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), requesting anonymity, said that they are focusing not just on supply-side control, but also on demand reduction. Rehabilitation and social reintegration are essential.

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