- Lack of Rehabilitation Facilities, Scarce Psychiatrists, and Superficial Governance Expose Systemic Failures; Urgent Steps Needed to Save a Generation from Drug Addiction
JAMMU: Drug addiction has reached an alarming level in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly among the youth. The rising consumption of drugs is not only a social crisis but also a serious health emergency that demands immediate attention. Everyone in society is eager to see this menace eradicated, yet the lack of a systematic and dedicated approach has hindered effective progress.
As per a press statement issued by BJP Media Cell, It is crucial to implement continuous monitoring and long-term treatment strategies under the supervision of medical professionals. Unfortunately, many district hospitals in the Union Territory are devoid of adequate inpatient department (IPD) facilities due to the shortcomings of the Health and Medical Education Department and the scarcity of psychiatrists.
One of the key responsibilities of a health minister is to address pressing health concerns, yet our Health Minister, Sakina, appears to be more preoccupied with superficial engagements, such as visiting examination centers, rather than focusing on critical health issues. Her public appearances seem more about political visibility rather than taking substantive steps to combat the drug crisis ravaging our youth. The failure to recognize the gravity of this situation is deeply concerning. A proactive minister would prioritize the enhancement of rehabilitation centers, the deployment of specialized doctors, and the implementation of strong anti-drug policies.
The lack of responsiveness in handling past health crises further exposes the administration's inefficiency. The tragic deaths of several members of a single family in Rajouri should have been thoroughly investigated with transparency. However, the minister hesitated to address the cause of death, particularly regarding poisoning, indicating a pattern of taking health-related issues lightly. Such a dismissive approach raises serious questions about the leadership's commitment to public well-being.
The government’s "Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir" initiative must be executed with full sincerity and efficiency. Delay in its implementation suggests administrative negligence. The health minister must present a clear roadmap outlining the steps to combat drug addiction, including measures to increase the number of psychiatrists in hospitals, strengthen rehabilitation facilities, and launch comprehensive awareness campaigns. The absence of such a strategy indicates a failure in governance and an outright disregard for the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth.
Given the urgency of the situation, the Chief Minister must intervene immediately. Strong leadership is required to prevent further loss of precious lives. The CM should ensure that necessary resources are allocated to tackle this crisis effectively. Steps must be taken to:
1. Establish well-equipped drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centers in every district.
2. Recruit and deploy an adequate number of psychiatrists and addiction specialists.
3. Strengthen awareness programs to educate the youth and society about the dangers of drug abuse.
4. Implement stringent measures to curb drug trafficking and the illegal drug trade.
5. Ensure transparency in health-related matters and establish accountability within the department.
The government's primary responsibility is to ensure the well-being of its citizens. If there has been no improvement in health infrastructure and facilities for the last four months, it reflects poor governance. A failed system in every sector raises serious questions about its purpose, accountability, and efficiency in serving the people.
The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are the future of the region, and their lives must not be sacrificed due to governmental negligence. The CM must take direct responsibility and make saving young lives a priority. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve clear answers, strategic planning, and tangible action to put an end to this devastating crisis.
