Ladakh Still Lacks De-Addiction Facilities
The number of individuals seeking treatment for drug addiction in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K)has witnessed an alarming 145-fold increase over the past five years, rising from 247 cases in 2019-20 to 35,639 cases in 2023-24, as per data presented in the Lok Sabha.
However, Ladakh continues to lack de-addiction facilities, leaving affected individuals in the region without access to government-supported rehabilitation services.
Rising Drug De-Addiction Cases in J&K (2019-2024)
| Year | Individuals Treated in J&K | Ladakh |
|---|---|---|
| 2019-20 | 247 | No facility |
| 2020-21 | 1,509 | No facility |
| 2021-22 | 5,372 | No facility |
| 2022-23 | 17,018 | No facility |
| 2023-24 | 35,639 | No facility |
Lack of De-Addiction Centres in Ladakh
Since Ladakh became a Union Territory in 2019, it has lacked government-supported de-addiction centres. Despite the increasing need for rehabilitation services in the region, there have been no reported cases of individuals receiving treatment due to the absence of facilities.
Key Observations
- Sharp Increase in Drug Cases:
- The number of cases in J&K surged from 247 in 2019-20 to 35,639 in 2023-24, indicating a severe rise in substance abuse.
- Improved Awareness & Facilities in J&K:
- The rise in reported cases suggests greater awareness and access to de-addiction services.
- Persistent Lack of Facilities in Ladakh:
- Despite repeated concerns, Ladakh still has no de-addiction centres, leaving affected individuals without treatment options.
Need for Action
- Expansion of Rehabilitation Services: Authorities must establish de-addiction centres in Ladakh to provide necessary treatment to those struggling with substance abuse.
- Strengthening Existing Facilities in J&K: The sharp rise in cases underscores the need for more resources, medical staff, and awareness campaigns.
The surge in addiction cases in Jammu & Kashmir and the continued absence of facilities in Ladakh highlight an urgent need for policy intervention and enhanced rehabilitation efforts.
