A tragic incident unfolded in Chennai where a 26-year-old man reportedly died by suicide after losing ₹30,000—money his mother had saved for her cancer treatment—while playing online rummy. The man, who lived with his cancer-stricken mother and brother in Chinnamalai, was found dead on the terrace of their home on Saturday morning.
Family Confrontation Leads to Tragic Incident
According to reports, the man had been scolded by his mother and brother for his erratic behavior and addiction to online gaming. This confrontation is believed to have pushed him towards the extreme step.
The Times of India reported that the man went missing on Friday after the family discovered the misused funds. Despite attempts to locate him by reaching out to relatives and friends, his phone remained switched off. Eventually, at around 3:30 am on Saturday, the family found him in one of the terrace rooms, where he had taken his own life using a TV cable wire.
Background and Circumstances
The Chennai man had been working intermittently in the food business following his father’s death eight years ago. During the COVID-19 lockdown, he developed an addiction to online gaming, which reportedly worsened over time. His addiction led to the misappropriation of ₹30,000 from his mother’s cancer treatment savings, sparking the family’s distress and confrontation.
Police Investigation Underway
Upon discovering the body, the family alerted local authorities. Officers from the Kottupuram police station arrived at the scene and began an investigation. Authorities are examining the circumstances leading up to the incident and exploring potential measures to curb online gaming addiction in vulnerable individuals.
Growing Concerns Over Online Gaming Addiction
This incident adds to the rising concerns surrounding online gaming addiction and its psychological impact. In Tamil Nadu and across India, there have been increasing reports of financial distress, mental health issues, and suicides linked to online gambling and gaming platforms.
Mental Health Support and Helpline Information
Experts emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and seeking help in times of distress. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, reach out to local helplines or mental health professionals.
