Srinagar, June 01 (KMS): In occupied Kashmir, about 35 per cent orphans living in different orphanages in Srinagar are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD).

A survey conducted under Childcare and Guidance Scheme titled ‘Psychological Problems in Kashmir’, 34.6 percent orphans suffer from PTSD while 7.8 percent adults in Srinagar also suffer from the disorders.

The results came to fore in a daylong seminar in Srinagar conducted by Islamic Relief and Research Trust (IRRT), Kashmir, in collaboration with Institute of Objective Studies (IOS) New Delhi.

It is worth mentioning here that psychological disorders among Kashmiris have increased during the past 19 years due to unabated Indian state terrorism.

Number of intellectuals readout the papers regarding need of Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other social welfare organizations to address the problem. “The situation in the occupied territory is not stable and the crises like situation here demand that the NGOs should play active role,” said Dr Z M Khan of IOS.

In his speech, founder IRRT, A R Hanjura said, “There are one lakh orphans in occupied Kashmir. They are denied the benefits under central government schemes and as such the NGOs have to play a significant role to help such orphans”. Stressing the need of professionalism among the NGOs, the speakers called on these organisations to work for the welfare and betterment of orphans and widows.