By News Desk,Suicide After Losing

Copyright thelogicalindian

In Mohanlalganj, Lucknow, 14-year-old Yash Kumar, a Class 6 student, died by suicide after allegedly losing Rs 13 lakh of his father’s life savings to the popular mobile game Free Fire through in-app purchases over about a month. The money was drained from a bank account linked to the family’s mobile device without the father’s knowledge.

The tragic incident has raised alarms about escalating online gaming addiction among minors in India, prompting calls for stronger parental oversight and policy regulation. Authorities confirmed an ongoing investigation into the case.

Gaming Addiction and Financial Loss

Yash Kumar’s father, Suresh Kumar Yadav, a local painter, had saved Rs 13 lakh after selling a piece of land around two years ago, which was securely deposited in his bank account linked to their mobile phone. Over the course of approximately one month, Yash accessed this account repeatedly to make in-app purchases in the Free Fire game. The teenager reportedly became addicted to the game, with family members sharing that he confessed losing huge sums, including around Rs 50,000 in a single day.

Upon discovering the account depleted during a bank visit, Suresh confronted Yash, who admitted to spending all the money on the game. Hours later, Yash was found hanging in his room, having died by suicide. The police have confirmed the incident and sent the body for post-mortem examination.

The family, including Yash’s mother Vimla and younger sister Gungun, is devastated, describing him as a bright and well-behaved child who had gradually grown withdrawn. “I wasn’t harsh with him; I just wanted to guide him,” said Suresh, expressing deep sorrow. Neighbours and school officials also mourned the loss and urged increased awareness about gaming addiction.

Wider Issue of Gaming Addiction in India

This tragic case is not isolated. Across India, similar incidents of children losing large sums through online gaming apps and resorts have surfaced, highlighting the risks of unregulated in-app purchases and gaming addiction. Mental health experts warn that the combination of easy access to digital money and addictive gameplay mechanics makes children vulnerable to impulsive spending and behavioural issues. Parents often remain unaware of the extent to which children engage in paid games.

The government has responded with recent measures like the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which aims to curb gambling via online games while promoting safe gaming platforms such as eSports. Cybersecurity and child welfare agencies continue to raise awareness campaigns calling for stricter controls on underage access to such apps and better monitoring by caregivers.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

This heartrending incident reminds us how digital advances can sometimes outpace social safeguards, leaving vulnerable children at risk of financial and emotional harm. It is imperative to blend vigilance with empathy-parents, educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers must work together to educate and protect children from the hidden dangers of gaming addiction.

Financial literacy for both parents and youth, open family conversations, and robust regulatory frameworks can foster a safer digital environment. While technology offers countless benefits, we must not overlook its potential to impact young lives adversely.