Chennai Youth Ends Life After Losing Mother’s Cancer Treatment Fund in Online Rummy Game
GG News Bureau
Chennai, 21st Dec. A 26-year-old man from Chennai, identified as Akash, tragically ended his life after losing his mother’s cancer treatment savings in an online rummy game. Akash, a catering delivery worker, became addicted to online rummy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Living with his mother, a cancer patient, and his brother after the loss of their father a few years ago, Akash had recently used ₹30,000, which his mother had saved for her treatment, to play online games. Upon being confronted by his mother and brother, Akash admitted to his actions, leading to a scolding. Later that evening, he went missing from their home, taking his mobile phone with him.
Despite the family’s efforts to locate him, including visiting close friends’ homes, Akash was not found. The next morning, his body was discovered on the terrace of their residence.
The Kottupuram Police in Chennai have registered a case and begun an investigation into the tragic incident. Over the last four years, 48 individuals in Tamil Nadu have committed suicide due to addiction to online betting apps and online loan frauds.
In response to the growing concern, the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA) has vowed to take stricter actions against those promoting online gambling and betting apps in the state. Citizens are encouraged to report gambling activities or offer suggestions for better regulation through the official TNOGA portal or email.
The TNOGA Act of 2022 prohibits online gambling, betting, and games of chance, with violators facing imprisonment of up to three months or a fine of up to ₹5,000. The Act also bans advertisements promoting such activities in any form of media in Tamil Nadu.
Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) president and former Union Minister, Anbumani Ramadoss, has urged the government to implement stricter measures against online games like rummy, citing the devastating effect they have on the youth, with many reportedly driven to despair and suicide.
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