Srinagar, Nov 20: A comprehensive investigation reveals a catastrophic online gambling crisis systematically dismantling Kashmir’s social fabric, pushing families to economic ruin and trapping youth in a relentless cycle of digital addiction.
In Soura, Srinagar, a 24-year-old man’s generational wealth evaporated when online gambling consumed ₹28 lakh, forcing them to sell their ancestral home – a sanctuary built through decades of sacrifice.
“My son was about to commit suicide as he had lost over Rs 28 lakh in online gambling game, which forced me to sell my ancestral house, ” said a father who son was badly addicted to online gambling. He didn’t reveal his identity as his daughter is yet to get married.
Baramulla echoes this tragedy with another young man’s ₹10 lakh gambling debt that has transformed a hopeful household into a landscape of financial desolation.
A college student from Kupwara provides a haunting testimony: “It began innocently, just killing time during free hours. What started with small bets quickly spiralled. I’ve already lost ₹50,000, borrowing from friends and family. Every loss convinces me I can win back everything, but I’m only sinking deeper.”
Religious scholars attribute the rise in gambling to a lack of awareness and moral guidance.
Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam emphasized the importance of religious teachings in combating this problem. “Gambling is strictly prohibited in Islam. Parents need to take responsibility for monitoring their children and teaching them about these dangers. At the same time, the government must regulate gambling platforms that make it so accessible,” he said.
Psychological experts also point to deeper causes of gambling addiction. Dr Fazal, a consultant at SMHS Hospital’s drug addiction center, said, “People with low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression are more likely to gamble. Impulsive behaviour and drug addiction further increase vulnerability. Gambling-related cases are rising in Kashmir. Out of 100 daily OPD cases, we see around three directly linked to gambling, but many go unreported.”
Dr. Fazal noted that online platforms worsen the problem by making gambling easily accessible. “Parents often don’t realize their children are gambling because it looks like they are playing mobile games. Losses from gambling frequently lead to anxiety and depression, creating a cycle that is hard to escape,” he said.
As gambling continues to infiltrate homes across Kashmir, it remains to be seen whether these collective efforts will succeed in breaking the cycle of addiction that has already left many struggling to rebuild their lives.
Online gambling has become a significant issue worldwide, impacting societies with its easy accessibility and financial consequences. Many fall into the trap of online betting, lured by the promise of quick financial gains. However, this often leads to mounting debts, mental health issues, and the erosion of family stability.
The problem in Kashmir mirrors global trends. A 2024 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlights the rapid growth of online gambling in India, driven by accessible apps and weak regulations. Experts estimate that over 80% of gamblers in India face significant financial losses, leading to a vicious cycle of borrowing and further gambling. In Kashmir, unemployment and rising digital penetration have amplified the issue.
