This is one of those news stories from Jammu and Kashmir that feels heavy from start itself . First a CRPF officer suddenly dies at camp,and then separate case of 25-year-old mechanic found dead at home… honestly,it just leaves very uneasy feeling.
In Shopian,Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) from Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was stationed at Horticulture Camp in Zainapora area . He reportedly collapsed suddenly and was rushed to Community Health Centre (CHC) in Zainapora,but doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Officer was from Rajbagh area of Kathua district . Local police have now started investigation to understand what exactly happened around his death .
And then,almost in same disturbing news cycle,another incident came from Chimmer area of Kulgam district . 25-year-old mechanic was found dead inside his home,with authorities saying he was discovered hanging inside residence.
After medico-legal procedures,his body was handed over to family for final rites . Police have started investigation in this matter also .
Few things standing out clearly here:
- CRPF Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) collapsed at Horticulture Camp in Zainapora and was declared dead at Community Health Centre (CHC)
- 25-year-old mechanic was found dead in Chimmer area of Kulgam district
- Official records show suicide cases rising from 472 in 2020 to 586 in 2021
And tbh,the second case again brings back bigger worry which many people in Kashmir have been talking about for long time . Youth suicides are not some small issue now,it has reached point where families and communities are scared but still many people don’t know where to go for help.
Reports connect this rise to many pressures at same time like unemployment,substance abuse,long-term exposure to violence,economic stress and mental health problems . Around 4.6% of population is reported to be using opioid substances,and many reportedly begin substance use as early as ages 11 to 20 . That age group itself is heartbreaking ah .
But mental health stigma makes everything worse . Many people still hide depression,addiction,family problems or failed relationships because they fear judgement more than illness itself . And when young people keep everything inside,situation can turn dangerous silently.
Just days before death of youth in Kulgam,another young individual reportedly jumped into River Jhelum in Srinagar . So when people say region needs stronger mental health support,they are not saying it for formality only .
Right now,police investigations will tell official details in these cases . But bigger question is still hanging there… how many young people are struggling quietly before anyone even notices…
