Unemployment and Drug Crisis Plague Kashmiri Youth in IIOJK: Mirwaiz Calls for Action

With over 2.2 million youth jobless and drug abuse spiraling out of control, IIOJK is witnessing a social crisis that demands immediate government intervention.

Senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, has raised serious concerns about the alarming levels of unemployment and drug addiction among the youth in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK). Speaking at a seminar titled “Building a Drug-Free Kashmir – Role of Students and Society” at Islamia Higher Secondary School in Srinagar, he placed the blame squarely on the administration led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

According to Mirwaiz, around 2.2 million young Kashmiris, mostly between the ages of 18 and 35, are currently unemployed. This shocking figure amounts to nearly one-third of the total youth population in that age group.

He also highlighted the fast-growing drug abuse crisis among Kashmiri youth. Citing clinical studies and field research, he revealed that nearly 11% of young people have either experimented with or are addicted to narcotic substances. The most common drugs being used are opioids, particularly tramadol and heroin.

Mirwaiz described the situation as a full-scale crisis, warning that the continued rise in substance abuse is putting the health, well-being, and future of Kashmiri youth at serious risk. He emphasized that this is not just a public health issue but a societal one that requires collective action.

While acknowledging the role of Imams, religious scholars, civil society, and families in spreading awareness and promoting prevention, Mirwaiz asserted that the primary responsibility lies with the government. He criticized the administration for its lack of a structured and urgent response, despite overwhelming evidence of a worsening situation. He called the inaction a reflection of governmental negligence.

In addition to drug use, Mirwaiz expressed dismay over the growing availability of liquor in the region. He warned that promoting alcohol under the guise of tourism development only worsens the situation, making harmful substances more accessible to young people.

Mirwaiz urged for the development of comprehensive policies that address both employment opportunities and drug prevention strategies. He called on authorities to invest in education, skill-building, and rehabilitation to safeguard the future of Kashmiri youth.