A Growing Disaster
By: Mohammad Iqbal Mughal
In the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, a grave issue is quietly eroding the fabric of society—the growing addiction to gambling among unemployed youth. Once known for its serene beauty and cultural richness, Kashmir now faces a crisis that threatens its future generation. Online gambling platforms, fueled by widespread unemployment and easy access to digital devices, are ensnaring the region’s youth in a vicious cycle of addiction, debt, and despair.
Unemployment: The Root of the Problem
Kashmir’s chronic unemployment issue has left many young individuals disillusioned and directionless. With limited job opportunities and minimal avenues for recreational activities, the youth are turning to online gambling apps as a source of quick income or escape. These platforms exploit their vulnerabilities, enticing them with promises of easy money, while often delivering nothing but financial ruin.
The Impact of Gambling Addiction
The consequences of gambling addiction are disastrous:
- Financial Instability: Most youths lose their meager savings or borrow money, falling into a cycle of debt that often involves their families.
- Mental Health Issues:Constant losses lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, further exacerbating their already fragile state.
- Social Problems: Addiction fosters dishonesty and broken trust within families and communities, often leading to strained relationships.
- Criminal Behaviour: In extreme cases, gambling debts push individuals toward illegal activities, such as theft, fraud, or drug trafficking.
The Role of Online Gambling Apps and Advertisements
Online gambling apps are the primary culprits in this epidemic. They are highly addictive, designed with algorithms that manipulate human psychology to ensure prolonged engagement. Adding fuel to the fire are aggressive advertisements that glorify gambling as a glamorous and lucrative activity. These ads exploit the aspirations of vulnerable youth, luring them into a trap that many cannot escape.
A Call for Government Intervention
The time for decisive action is now. The government must take a stand against this growing menace by:
- Banning Online Gambling Apps: The authorities must enforce strict regulations to block these platforms in Kashmir and across India.
- Restricting Advertisements: All forms of gambling advertisements should be banned immediately, just as the government regulates ads for tobacco and alcohol.
- Promoting Employment Opportunities: Initiatives should focus on skill development and job creation to provide the youth with meaningful alternatives to gambling.
- Awareness Campaigns: Educational programs should be launched to highlight the dangers of gambling addiction and offer resources for rehabilitation.
Conclusion
Gambling addiction among unemployed youth in Kashmir is not just an individual problem—it is a societal disaster that demands urgent attention. The government, civil society, and community leaders must unite to combat this menace and protect the future of Kashmir’s youth.
By banning gambling apps, curbing their advertisements, and fostering employment opportunities, we can break this destructive cycle and restore hope for a brighter tomorrow.
(The author is a Socio-political Activist and a Columnist)
