The lure of online games, hours dedicated to screens, and social media obsession are rapidly shaping childhood in urban India. And with devastating consequences.
In a chilling incident, three sisters in Loni, Ghaziabad, died by suicide after reportedly developing an addiction gaming application.
The victims, aged 16, 14, and 12, were identified as Nishika, Prachi, and Pakhi.
The incident has again brought to the fore the uncontrolled exposure to gaming and social media that are not just eroding children’s creative faculties but also putting their lives at risk.
The parents of the three sisters had repeatedly reprimanded them over excessive they dedicated to a Korean gaming application.
They even barred them from using the app. Investigators believe the sisters then made a silent and tragic decision.
It appears the pull to access these games was so strong that they ended their lives in protest.
Reports mentioned that the sisters were so immersed in the game that they began addressing one another by Korean names.
The three girls reportedly left their bedroom and moved to a temple room in their flat early Wednesday.
Using a chair placed near a window, they allegedly jumped from the ninth floor. The incident occurred at around 2.15am at Bharat City Society under the Tila Mod police station limits.
On reaching the site, officers confirmed that Nishika, Prachi, and Pakhi, daughters of Chetan Kumar, had died from the fall. The bodies were taken to a 50-bed hospital in Loni where doctors pronounced them dead.
The parents found a handwritten note left behind by the sisters, pasted on a glass panel. Titled ‘True Life Story’ and bearing a sad emoji, the note, written in a mix of Hindi and English, asked readers to go through its contents. It included an apology to their father.
“Is diari me jo kuch bhi likha hai wo sab padh lo kyunki ye sab sach hai. Read now!!! I’m really sorry. Sorry papa,” the note, published by the media, read.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Kumar Singh was quoted as saying that the Police Response Vehicle received information about the incident around 2.15am.
Social isolation
Investigators said none of the sisters had attended school since the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite being 16, the eldest, Nishika, was reportedly enrolled only in Class 4, highlighting prolonged educational disruption and social isolation.
The police have sent the bodies for post-mortem examination. They are also analysing the handwritten note, the diary referred to in it, and digital evidence linked to the gaming application.
Officials reportedly said that all aspects — including the sisters’ online activity, family circumstances, and mental health — are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Growing concern
Recently, a majority of parents in India reported that their children are addicted to online platforms such as social media and gaming,
The findings came to light in an online survey, conducted between November 15 and December 18, 2025 by a digital platform. It found that 25 per cent of urban parents believe India should introduce mandatory parental consent for children joining social media, OTT, and online gaming platforms.
The survey highlighted that some children spend more than six hours every day on mobile phones.
The emotional impact of online platforms on children was a chilling reminder of the risks posed by excessive screen time.
Around 61 per cent said that their wards have become impatient. Fifty-eight per cent said they have become aggressive. Fifty per cent observed that their children became hyperactive. And 47 per cent noted that their children became lethargic.
Two years ago, a national survey interviewing close to half a lakh parents revealed that six out of 10 youngsters in the 9-17 age group spend over three hours daily on various social media or gaming sites.
Post the COVID-19 lockdowns, many urban Indian homes with school-going children are experiencing discontent. This sentiment is reportedly on account of increased access to gaming gadgets that they are seeking.
Would it be an overstatement to call it an epidemic? Perhaps not given the way gaming is taking a toll on children’s mood and routines in ways that only become tragically clear too late.
What’s the solution then?
Defining game-time limits need to be set gently, yet firmly.
Screen time should not take over homework, meals, or sleep. Children respond better when boundaries are consistent.
Encouraging hobbies outside the screen helps. Sports, music, and reading are healthy alternatives. Perhaps, even career options if they pursue sport and music with passion.
Family time is often understated. Walks, cooking together, or communication can make offline life appealing.
Parents need to lead by example. Children notice if adults are always on phones or tablets.
Signs of obsession or withdrawal should never be ignored. Sometimes professional guidance is essential.
Above all, patience is key. Banning screens outright often backfires. Gradual changes and positive reinforcement work far better than punishment. Children need guidance, and not fear, to learn balance.
Also Read: Online Money Gaming Faces Ban As Parliament Passes Tough New Law https://www.vibesofindia.com/online-money-gaming-faces-ban-as-parliament-passes-tough-new-law/
