Two suicides linked to online gambling losses reported in Bengaluru

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Two individuals reportedly died by suicide on Friday evening in separate incidents in Mahadevapura and Bellandur, Bengaluru. Both cases are linked to financial distress caused by online gambling addiction, shedding light on the growing dangers of such activities.

As reported by The Times of India, the first incident occurred in Mahadevapura, where 25-year-old Mallikarjun, a lab technician assistant, was found dead in his PG accommodation. Originally from the Vijayanagar district, Mallikarjun had been working at a private hospital in the city. According to sources, he was deeply in debt after borrowing money to sustain his gambling habit. His colleagues described him as a diligent worker but noted that he had become increasingly withdrawn in recent months. On Friday evening, when Mallikarjun did not respond to calls, his friends checked his room and found him hanging.

In the second case, 30-year-old Kumaraswamy, an autorickshaw driver residing in A Krishnappa Nagar, Bellandur, ended his life under similar circumstances. Kumaraswamy’s wife, Dakshayini, and their children had gone out shopping when the incident occurred. Upon returning, Dakshayini found her husband hanging in their home. Neighbors helped rush him to a nearby hospital, but doctors declared him dead. Kumaraswamy was reportedly struggling with significant debt due to his addiction to online gambling, which had pushed his family into financial instability.

Both individuals are believed to have been battling gambling addiction for several years. Unable to clear their mounting debts, they took the extreme step, leaving their families in grief and shock.

The incidents have sparked concerns about the pervasive impact of online gambling, which has been blamed for leading many individuals into debt traps and mental health crises. Experts warn that the accessibility of online gambling platforms has made it easy for vulnerable individuals to fall into a cycle of addiction, often resulting in severe consequences.

Authorities and mental health experts are urging individuals struggling with gambling-related issues to seek professional help. Several helplines are available to provide support to those experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts and for any assistance, individuals can contact Tele-Manas at 14416 or 1800-891-4416 or reach out to SAHAI at 080-25497777. Families and communities are also encouraged to stay vigilant and provide support to those showing signs of distress or addiction.

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