Ghaziabad: The suicide of three minor sisters who jumped from the ninth floor of a housing society in Ghaziabad has prompted a strong administrative and policing response, with the district police recommending a nationwide ban on four online games and the education department issuing an advisory to schools to closely monitor students’ mobile phone usage.
The incident, which occurred in the Sahibabad area, has shaken residents and authorities alike. During the investigation, multiple indicators linked to excessive mobile phone use and online gaming addiction surfaced, prompting police to prepare a detailed report and forward it to the government. The report names four mobile games—Poppy Playtime, The Baby in Yellow, Evil Nun and Ice Scream—and recommends that they be banned across the country.
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According to the findings shared in the report, the police began examining the digital habits of the three sisters soon after the tragedy. Investigators found repeated references to online games and foreign pop culture influences during the inquiry. A suicide note recovered from the room from which the girls jumped mentioned these four games as their favourites. Police say the note listed personal likes and preferences, clearly indicating prolonged exposure to and engagement with the games.
Officials involved in the probe said the case could not be viewed in isolation, as it highlights a growing concern over unsupervised access to smartphones and online content among children and adolescents. Based on these observations, the police urged the government to consider a nationwide prohibition on the four games, citing their disturbing themes and potential psychological impact on minors.
Following the incident, the education department has also moved swiftly. At the district level, an advisory has been issued to all schools, directing them to take immediate steps to track students’ mobile phone activity and reassess teaching practices that rely heavily on digital devices. Schools have been asked to adopt a more cautious approach toward mobile-based learning, especially when regular offline classes are being conducted.
Education officials stated that while online classes and digital tools became necessary during emergencies such as pollution spikes or other disruptions, their use should remain limited under normal circumstances. School principals have been instructed to ensure that students are given mobile-based assignments only when absolutely required. Emphasis has also been laid on reducing screen time and encouraging classroom-based learning wherever possible.
In addition, schools have been directed to sensitise students about the adverse effects of excessive mobile phone use and the importance of maintaining digital balance. Awareness sessions focusing on mental health, responsible internet use and healthy recreational habits are to be strengthened as part of the school curriculum.
The advisory also introduces changes to parent-teacher engagement. Schools have been asked to expand the scope of parent-teacher meetings beyond academic performance. During PTMs, discussions will now include children’s mobile phone usage patterns, the type of online content they consume and the amount of time they spend on digital devices.
Education authorities said parents have expressed growing concern after the Ghaziabad incident, prompting a coordinated approach between schools and families. Teachers and parents will jointly assess children’s digital habits and work on strategies to gradually reduce dependency on mobile phones. Schools have been encouraged to counsel both students and parents on setting clear boundaries for screen time at home.
In a significant move, officials also suggested introducing a structured assessment of mobile usage, similar to academic grading. Under this proposed system, students who demonstrate controlled and responsible mobile phone use could receive better evaluations in behavioural assessments. Authorities clarified that the aim is not to penalise students but to curb mobile addiction and promote healthier routines without affecting academic outcomes.
Police officials said the investigation into the Ghaziabad suicide case is continuing, with a focus on understanding behavioural patterns, online influences and other contributing factors. The findings will be used to strengthen future preventive measures and policy recommendations.
The incident has sparked a broader debate on child safety in the digital age, with authorities emphasising the need for stricter oversight, parental awareness and institutional responsibility. The administration maintains that the steps taken so far are aimed at preventing similar tragedies and ensuring a safer environment for children amid the rapid expansion of digital content and online gaming.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
