This refers to the rampant use of tear gas shells in Kashmir. Tear gases are organic compounds commonly called lachrymatory agent or lachrymator that stimulates corneal nerves in eyes, resulting in pain and even blindness. Such organic compounds are commonly used as riot control agents and chemical warfare agents. However, long exposure to teargas can cause permanent eye problems like scarring, glaucoma, cataracts and may possibly cause breathing problems like asthma. Women can have miscarriages due to abnormal functioning of chromosomes. In Kashmir valley teargas shells have been continuously for the past 60 days and people are exposed to it at very high dose for long time. People living in downtown or densely populated locations like Sopur and Islamabad are prone to risk. I don’t know when Jammu and Kashmir government will stop using teargas shells against Kashmiri people. People living in areas where heavy use of tear gas has been used need immediate medical attention, especially kids and pregnant women. It is our duty to take care of our health while we are struggling. People should use mask if exposed to teargas and cover their nose and mouth.
Shahnaz Majid Qadri
Graduate Student,Medicinal Biochemistry
University of North Carolina Greensboro, USA

Lastupdate on : Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 IST