Alarming rise in suicides in Kashmir amidst conflict, unemployment, restrictions, social instability

By Raqif Makhdoomi

Suicide—the deliberate act of ending one’s own life—is often the final attempt by someone to escape overwhelming psychological pain, emotional distress, or a profound sense of hopelessness. In recent years, this tragic phenomenon has grown increasingly visible in Kashmir, where suicide rates are rising across various demographics, particularly among the youth, women, and those grappling with mental health challenges or socio-economic stress.

Nationally, distressing cases continue to surface. A recent viral video showed a young married woman ending her life, reportedly due to persistent abuse by her in-laws. While some leave behind messages, others die without explanation, leaving families searching for answers. In Kashmir, multiple suicides have been reported following school examination results, a pattern reminiscent of Kota in Rajasthan, where academic pressure has led to alarming numbers of student suicides.

In many cases, intense societal and familial expectations become unbearable. Children are often seen as trophies in social settings, with achievements used for comparison rather than celebration. Family gatherings, instead of being spaces for connection, sometimes become arenas of competition and subtle humiliation. This culture of comparison disregards individual talents and interests. Expecting every child to excel in the same domain is as unreasonable as expecting a whale to run a race on land or asking an elephant and a monkey to compete in tree-climbing. Such expectations not only demotivate children but can also cause anxiety, depression, and long-term psychological damage.

Mental health disorders significantly contribute to suicide risk. Conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, personality disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and substance use disorders are key factors. Additionally, impulsive suicides can arise from acute stressors—academic or financial problems, relationship issues, loss of a loved one, or bullying. Those who have previously attempted suicide are also at higher risk.

Suicide prevention involves a multifaceted approach: improving access to mental health care, addressing substance abuse, restricting access to means of suicide (like pesticides, firearms, or toxic substances), encouraging responsible media reporting, and tackling underlying social and economic issues. Recognizing warning signs is equally important. These may include persistent sadness, sudden mood shifts, withdrawal from social interactions, disturbed sleep, reckless behavior, and changes in personality or appearance. Preparatory acts, such as giving away belongings or making wills, can also be red flags. Verbal cues—even vague ones like “It would be better if I weren’t here”—should always be taken seriously.

Globally, suicide accounts for approximately 1.5% of all deaths. In 2016, it claimed 793,000 lives; by 2015, the number had reached 828,000, making it the tenth leading cause of death worldwide. The global suicide rate stands at around 12 per 100,000 people annually. Men are more likely to die by suicide, although women tend to attempt it more often. Rates are particularly high among the elderly, but in many countries, including India, young people aged 15 to 30 are increasingly at risk.

In India, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported 153,052 suicides in 2020. Jammu and Kashmir alone registered 287 suicide cases in that year—157 males and 130 females—with a projected mid-year population of 13.34 million. The Srinagar district witnessed a 200% rise, from 2 suicide cases in 2019 to 6 in 2020. The data further breaks down the causes:

- 29 cases were related to marriage issues, including 14 from broken engagements and 7 from dowry-related stress.

- 15 suicides were linked to academic failure, highlighting the intense burden students face.

- 25 cases were due to love affairs, while 20+ were related to family disputes.

- 5 cases were attributed to mental illness, with others connected to drug use and alcohol addiction.

- 46 cases were due to unemployment, and 13 due to poverty.

- In 101 cases, the reasons remained unidentified, while 23 were grouped under other or miscellaneous causes.

Such figures reflect both the breadth and complexity of the problem. In Kashmir's unique socio-political environment—marked by conflict, unemployment, restrictions, and social instability—the burden on individuals is compounded. Women and youth, in particular, face challenges of autonomy, social pressure, and limited mental health support.

Suicide trends and attitudes vary across cultures. In the Abrahamic religions, suicide is often viewed as morally and theologically impermissible due to the sanctity of life. Historically, some societies have sanctioned forms of suicide: in Japan’s samurai tradition, seppuku was once seen as a way to uphold honor; in India, the now-banned practice of sati involved widows being burned alive on their husband's funeral pyre, often under coercion.

In modern times, suicide is also sometimes used as a form of protest, or in extreme cases, weaponized in military and terrorist strategies. Regardless of context, the act remains devastating for families and communities.

As societies evolve, so too must our responses. Prevention cannot rely solely on law or policy. It must begin with compassion, communication, and connection. Conversations—honest, non-judgmental, and supportive—can make a difference. Every word matters, especially in a world where so many suffer silently. Building a culture of empathy and emotional support, particularly in schools, homes, and workplaces, is vital. While professional help is crucial, so too is a friend who listens, a parent who understands, or a teacher who doesn’t judge.

The rising tide of suicides in Kashmir should serve as a wake-up call. It reflects not just individual despair but a collective failure to nurture hope. Addressing it requires awareness, empathy, policy action—and above all—a willingness to see and support those quietly struggling around us.

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Raqif Makhdoomi is a law student and human rights activist

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