Online gaming addiction drives youth to attempt suicide in Balasore after losing Rs 5 lakh

In a shocking and heart-wrenching incident, a young man from Teghari village under Jaleswar block in Balasore district reportedly attempted suicide after losing a huge sum of money in online gaming. The youth, identified as Sourajit Ray, is said to have lost more than Rs 5 lakh after playing some online betting games, plunging him into deep financial and emotional turmoil.

More About The Incident

Sources from the victim’s family revealed that Sourajit, a youth in his twenties, had become increasingly addicted to online gaming over the past several months. What began as a pastime soon turned into a dangerous obsession, as he allegedly started betting large sums of money in hopes of quick financial gain. 

Instead, he fell into a trap of continuous losses, which not only drained his savings but also pushed him into a state of depression and anxiety.

Unable to cope with the financial stress and mental pressure, Sourajit allegedly attempted to take his own life. Family members found him in a critical condition and rushed him to Jaleswar Sub-Divisional Hospital for emergency treatment. 

However, given the seriousness of his condition, he was later shifted to the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital for advanced medical care. His condition remains critical, and doctors are closely monitoring his recovery.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising serious concerns about the increasing prevalence of online gaming addiction, especially among the youth. 

What Experts Say?

Mental health professionals and social activists have called for immediate awareness drives and stronger digital safety measures to curb the menace. Experts stress that online games involving money, often operating without regulatory oversight, pose serious psychological and financial risks to users.

Meanwhile, local police have begun an inquiry into the incident. They are also exploring whether the youth was lured by fraudulent gaming platforms or was under peer pressure. Cyber Cell officials may be involved in tracking the gaming transactions to understand the scope of financial exploitation.

This tragic episode once again underscores the urgent need for stricter laws, better parental supervision, and community awareness regarding the potential dangers of excessive online gaming. As Sourajit fights for his life, his story stands as a cautionary tale for families across the region.

Authorities have appealed to parents to remain vigilant about their children’s online activities and to seek professional help if signs of gaming addiction or mental distress are observed.