Women in Rudraprayag manage their families during the day and protect crops from wild animals at night. Their courage and hard work in safeguarding crops from leopards, bears, and wild boars are commendable.
Dumka: In the Dumka district of Jharkhand, a 12-year-old child committed suicide by hanging himself after his mother refused to buy him a smartphone. This tragic incident occurred in Mathakesho village on Thursday. The child's mother and neighbors stated that he insisted on having a smartphone for studies and other activities, but his mother could not fulfill his demand due to financial constraints. The incident has once again highlighted the growing desire for digital devices among children and its potential dangers.
Minor Commits Suicide Due to Insistence on a Smartphone
Badrika Devi, the mother of the 12-year-old child living in Mathakesho village of Saraiyahat police station area, said that her son often insisted on getting a smartphone. After returning from school on Thursday morning, the child again asked his mother for a smartphone. The mother rejected his demand due to her limited resources. This led to an argument between them, and Badrika Devi went to work in the fields.
When she returned home in the afternoon, she found her son hanging from a noose tied to the mud roof of the house. Seeing this sight, the mother was completely stunned and cried out. Neighbors immediately informed the police, who arrived at the scene, took possession of the body, and sent it for post-mortem.
Family's Economic Situation
Police investigation also revealed that the deceased's father works as a contract laborer in Bengaluru, and the family's expenses are covered by the wages sent from there. The family's limited financial situation and the increasing demand for modern gadgets among children gave rise to this tragic incident.
Station House Officer Rajendra Yadav stated that statements from the family and neighbors have been recorded in the preliminary investigation. Currently, the police have registered this incident as a suicide and are investigating the matter.
Growing Addiction to Digital Devices Among Children
Experts believe that smartphones have become an integral part of children's lives today. Their dependence on smartphones for studies, entertainment, and social media has increased rapidly. However, when their demands are not met due to financial reasons or family restrictions, children tend to experience stress and depression.
Psychologist Dr. Reena Verma says, "Smartphones and other digital gadgets can quickly become addictive for children. If these become extremely essential items for them, and parents cannot fulfill them, children can fall into despair and mental stress. Parents should increase communication with their children and understand their emotions."