The tragic suicide of three sisters in Ghaziabad has ignited a debate about parental control, children's mental health, and the potential legal ramifications of confiscating a child's mobile phone. The girls, aged 16, 14, and 12, reportedly jumped from the ninth floor of their apartment building after their father took away their phones due to their alleged obsession with Korean culture and online gaming.
The father, Chetan Kumar, a resident of Ghaziabad, has been under intense scrutiny since the incident on February 4, 2026. Initial police investigations suggest the girls were deeply distressed by the loss of their phones, which they used to play online games, connect with friends, and engage with Korean dramas and culture. According to police, the father later sold the phones. A recovered suicide note and diary entries reportedly reflect the girls' emotional distress and attachment to online content. The forensic team is currently analyzing the recovered mobile phone and suicide note.
The question of whether confiscating a child's phone constitutes a crime is complex. Legally, parents have the right and responsibility to make decisions for their children's well-being, including setting boundaries around technology use. However, the line between responsible parenting and emotional abuse can become blurred, especially when such actions lead to devastating consequences.
Speaking anonymously, a father of three minors shared his perspective, "As a parent, you try to do what you think is best. But this incident...it makes you question everything. Where do you draw the line? How do you protect your children without isolating them?" He became visibly emotional, adding, "Children don't need a mobile, they need our presence".
The Ghaziabad police are investigating the case from all angles, including verifying the father's claims about the girls' online gaming obsession and examining the family's circumstances. New details emerging from the investigation reveal a complex family life, including financial struggles and the father having multiple wives who are sisters. This adds another layer of complexity to the already sensitive case, raising concerns about family instability and its potential impact on the children's mental health.
The incident has prompted widespread discussion about the impact of social media and online gaming on young minds. Experts emphasize the importance of open communication, setting healthy boundaries, and providing children with alternative activities and emotional support. Some have called for collective action to limit children's digital exposure, advocating for family support and human connection over screens and virtual platforms.
In the wake of the Ghaziabad tragedy, various individuals and organizations are offering support and resources for those struggling with mental health issues. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by young people in the digital age.