Ghaziabad Tragedy: Three Sisters' Death Linked to Online Gaming Addiction
In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked Ghaziabad, three minor sisters allegedly jumped to their deaths from the ninth-floor balcony of their family flat in the early hours of Wednesday. Police investigating the case have revealed disturbing details about the girls' online gaming habits and mobile phone addiction that developed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The three sisters—identified as Nishika (16), Prachi (14), and Pakhi (12)—were daughters of Chetan Kumar and residents of Bharat City in the Sahibabad area under Teela Mor police station limits. According to police reports, the incident occurred around 2:15 am on Wednesday when other family members were asleep.
The girls were immediately taken to a hospital in Loni, where doctors declared them dead on arrival. The family has five children in total—four daughters and one son—with the father having married twice and all family members living together.
Online Gaming Habit Developed During Pandemic
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Shalimar Garden) Atul Kumar Singh stated that the investigation has uncovered that the sisters had developed a significant online gaming habit during the Covid-19 lockdown period. "They did everything together—from eating, bathing and sleeping to going to school," Singh said, highlighting their close bond.
Police officials revealed that the girls would mostly play games together and were heavily influenced by Korean online content. Deputy Commissioner of Police Nimish Patil noted that the sisters spent a significant amount of time on their mobile phones and were particularly drawn to Korean games and media.
Family Restrictions and Distress
Investigators are examining the role of mobile phone addiction and the specific influence of Korean online games in this tragic case. DCP Patil mentioned that family members had recently restricted the girls' mobile phone usage, which may have caused them considerable distress.
"The investigation is at an early stage, but we are looking into all aspects including the psychological impact of gaming addiction and sudden withdrawal from device usage," Patil added.
Educational Background and Recovered Evidence
Police officials disclosed that the sisters' education had been irregular, with them not attending school for the past two years. Their academic performance had also been unsatisfactory earlier, according to school records.
During the investigation, police recovered a diary belonging to the girls that contained a particularly poignant note. The message read: "Read everything written in this diary, it is all here," followed by the words, "Sorry papa, I am really sorry." The note was accompanied by a crying-face symbol.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are currently recording statements from family members and examining all circumstances leading to the tragic incident. The investigation team is focusing on multiple angles including:
- The psychological impact of prolonged online gaming
- The influence of specific Korean games and content
- The effects of sudden restriction from mobile devices
- The family dynamics and living situation
- The girls' educational background and social interactions
This tragic case has highlighted the growing concern about online gaming addiction among teenagers and the need for greater awareness about digital wellness and mental health support for young people.
