Chennai Man Dies By Suicide After Spending Mother's Cancer Treatment Savings On Online Rummy

A 26-year-old man from Chennai tragically took his own life after being reprimanded by his mother and brother for allegedly spending the money she had saved for her cancer treatment on an online rummy game.

The man, who was reported missing on Friday, was found dead the following Saturday morning, according to the Times of India.

Photo Credit: Pexels

The deceased, who resided on Second Street in Chennai's Chinnamalai area, had been working sporadically in a food business. His father had passed away eight years ago, and he lived with his mother and brother.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, he developed a habit of playing online games and became addicted to them. In an attempt to fund his gaming, he allegedly stole ₹30,000 from his mother's savings, which had been set aside for her cancer treatment.

On Friday, his mother and brother scolded him for his erratic behaviour and for spending the money on the game.

After this, the man went missing. His family tried reaching him but were unable to contact him as his phone was switched off. They searched for him at the homes of relatives and friends, but to no avail.

At 3:30 am on Saturday, the family checked the terrace of their house, where they discovered he had tragically taken his own life by strangling himself with a TV cable in one of the rooms.

Upon receiving the report, a team from Kottupuram police station arrived at the residence and recovered the body. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional.

Helplines: Aasra: 022 2754 6669; Sneha India Foundation: +914424640050; Sanjivini: 011-24311918; Roshni Foundation (Secunderabad): 040-66202001, 040-66202000; ONE LIFE: 78930 78930; SEVA: 09441778290