Odisha teenager left disabled following gaming addiction

A teenager in the Bhadrak district of Odisha has been left severely disabled following an alleged suicide attempt linked to excessive online gaming. The boy, who was originally provided a mobile phone in 2022 for online classes, reportedly became increasingly absorbed in gaming, leading to significant behavioral changes.

While the teenager survived the attempt, he is now unable to walk and faces difficulties with speech. His family, facing severe financial distress after exhausting their savings on medical costs, has appealed to the Odisha government and the public for assistance. Local officials and the district administration have indicated they may provide support.