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In a stark reminder of the unchecked rise of online gaming addiction and the risks associated with it, a slew of cases involving fatalities in recent days in Odisha have left shockwaves and sparked several concerns.
Online gaming, once seen as mere entertainment, has increasingly turned into a dangerous obsession. In Odisha, recent incidents have raised alarm about the dark side of digital gaming—addiction, massive financial loss, and even suicide attempts.
In just the past few days, two disturbing cases emerged, one from Jaleswar in Balasore district and another from Bhubaneswar, exposing how far the consequences of online gaming addiction can go.
In Jaleswar, a private tutor named Sourajit Ray reportedly attempted suicide after losing Rs 5 lakh in an online gaming app.
Overwhelmed by financial loss and despair, he reportedly slashed his hands and neck with a knife. As of the last reports, he was battling for life in a hospital. The incident shocked locals and shed light on the rising threat of unregulated gaming platforms.
Meanwhile, in Bhubaneswar’s Laxmisagar area, 23-year-old Bikash Nayak was found dead under mysterious circumstances on Saturday.
After his body was recovered from his home, family members stated that he had lost over Rs 7 lakh to online betting platforms and was under severe stress. Preliminary evidence also suggested that his death may be linked to his online gaming habits.
Experts say the problem worsens during events like the Indian Premier League (IPL), where online betting sees a surge. Despite the government banning certain betting and gaming apps, the absence of specific legal frameworks makes enforcement weak. Further, apps disguised as casual games or fantasy sports continue to trap users, especially the youth, into illegal gambling.
Psychologists and cyber experts warn that the lure of quick money through online games is a modern form of gambling, dressed in the garb of technology.
"These platforms are designed to be addictive. The more you play, the more you lose. The promise of earnings is often a trap," said a behavioural expert. Without awareness, timely counselling, or strict regulatory action, more families may face irreparable loss.
ALSO READ: Limit screen time, reduce gaming volume to prevent hearing loss in kids: Health Ministry
In the state, or even on a countrywide basis, concern around the growing vulnerability of young people falling into this trap is on the rise. Lured by flashy ads and peer pressure, many pour money into apps that often have no transparency or oversight.
Once trapped, users find it difficult to quit, leading to spiralling debts, mental breakdowns, and, tragically, suicides. While the government grapples with legal loopholes, families and individuals must stay alert. Experts urge people to stay away from betting and gaming apps, especially those involving real money.
As the line between gaming and gambling blurs, one thing is clear that in this digital gamble, few win, and most lose far more than money.
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