Short answer: Yes. In Jain dharma, masturbation is counted as a breach of brahmacharya (celibacy) for both monks and laypeople, and therefore a cause of paap. During Paryushan, when we take stricter vows and focus on inner purity, the fault becomes heavier because it is done against a conscious resolve to restrain the senses.

Why it is paap in Jain view

• It excites passions (kashāyas) like rāga and moha, which open the door to āśrava (inflow of karmas) and bandha (bondage).
• For a layperson’s brahmacharya-anuvrata, sexual indulgence is to be confined and disciplined; self-indulgence violates that restraint.
• The karmic load depends on bhāva (intention and intensity), duration, imagination, and negligence (pramāda).

If a lapse happens

• Alochanā: Admit the fault honestly before the Guru or inwardly before the Self.
• Pratikraman: Do daily pratikraman the same day; include specific repentance for this breach.
• Pratyākhyān (pachchakhan): Renew a clear vow to avoid it, at least for the remaining Paryushan days.
• Prāyaścitta: If health allows, take a light penance (e.g., ekāsan/ayambil or increased jap of Navkār Mantra) without harming the body.
• Guard the mind with the three guptis (restraint of mind, speech, body) and five samitis (carefulness), avoid triggers, keep to satsang, svādhyāy, samayik, and sleep early.

Note on traditions

• Both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions treat masturbation as a transgression of brahmacharya for householders and strictly prohibited for monks; the above guidance is common to both.

Remember: Jainism teaches vigilance, not despair. Recognize the fault, repent with humility, repair through right practice, and resolve firmly to preserve brahmacharya—especially during Paryushan.