Dar Muqeet Gull
Kashmir, often called the paradise on earth, is today facing a hidden storm one that does not make noise like conflict or natural disasters, yet is equally destructive. Online gambling, once seen as a distant or urban issue, has now deeply penetrated our society, targeting the most vulnerable segment,our youth but it is not visible in the mountains or in the skies but inside homes and hearts. Online gambling, once a distant concept, has now become frighteningly common in our society. What started as a form of entertainment has turned into a destructive habit, quietly ruining lives, families, and futures. There are countless stories emerging from different parts of the Valley where young boys, driven by greed and illusion, have lost everything. Many have sold household items, land, and even entire properties just to chase temporary wins that never last. Families who once lived with dignity are now shattered. Parents are suffering silently some falling into deep depression, others even facing serious health issues due to stress and shock.
The most alarming impact is on our youth…the backbone of our future. Students who should be focusing on studies and building their future are instead trapped in a cycle of betting and loss. Many have abandoned their goals, and their academic performance has sharply declined. The loss is not just financial it is intellectual and moral as well. This growing addiction is also pushing some youth towards other harmful behaviors. Frustration and hopelessness can lead individuals down darker paths, affecting their mental well-being and decision making ability. Careers are being destroyed before they even begin. The mental strength and decision-making ability of young individuals are weakening, making them vulnerable to further dangers like drug addiction.
“Kashmir’s cultural and spiritual values are being threatened by the rise of gambling. To protect the youth from addiction and familial destruction, teachers, parents, and authorities must unite to raise awareness and combat this menace before the long-term consequences become irreversible.”
When hope fades, darkness enters and unfortunately, we are witnessing rising cases of extreme stress and tragic outcomes in society.This is not just an individual problem , it is a social crisis. If not controlled today, it will consume the very fabric of our society tomorrow. A time may come when happiness disappears from our homes, replaced by regret and loss. However, all is not lost there is still time to act. Schools must play a leading role. Teachers should dedicate time every day to guide students about moral values, discipline, and the dangers of such harmful habits. Education is not only about books it is about building character and protecting the future.
Parents, on the other hand, must remain vigilant. In this digital age, giving children unrestricted access to smartphones without guidance can be risky. Open communication, supervision, and emotional support are essential to protect them from falling into such traps. Authorities also have a critical role to play. Strict monitoring and regulation of online gambling platforms are necessary. Those promoting or facilitating such activities must be held accountable under the law.Strict laws should be enforced against illegal online gambling platforms Strong action today can save thousands of lives tomorrow. Kashmir is a land of culture, values, and spirituality. Such destructive trends do not belong here. Even from a moral and religious perspective, gambling is strongly discouraged, as it leads to loss, addiction, and destruction of families. Let us come together as teachers, parents, authorities, and responsible citizens to protect our youth. Let us raise awareness, spread education, and stand firm against this growing menace.Because if we fail today, the price tomorrow will be far greater than we can imagine. Save the youth, save Kashmir.
(The author is a freelancer. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
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