This tragic incident in Ghaziabad’s Bharat City Society did indeed occur early on February 4, 2026, involving three sisters—aged 12, 14, and 16—who jumped from their ninth-floor balcony, resulting in their deaths. Initial reports linked it to an addiction to online Korean content, including a possible task-based interactive game that may have encouraged self-harm, similar to past challenges like Blue Whale. 0 The girls left behind an eight-page suicide note expressing their deep attachment to Korea, with phrases like “Papa, sorry. Korea is our life. Korea is our biggest love,” and they had adopted Korean names while becoming increasingly isolated, dropping out of school during the COVID-19 period. 1 Their father reported that the addiction escalated over years, with the sisters doing daily activities together as if following game-like rituals, and a recent denial of phone access may have been a trigger. 7

However, subsequent police investigations have cast doubt on the “possessed by a game” narrative. Authorities clarified that no direct evidence of a specific suicide-inducing Korean game was found; instead, the girls were primarily obsessed with Korean dramas, music, and social media accessed via their parents’ phones. 4 Underlying factors like severe family financial debt (around ₹2 crore from the father’s stock trading losses) and emotional pressures likely contributed more significantly to their desperation. 5 It’s a heartbreaking reminder of how digital addictions can intersect with real-world vulnerabilities.

As for your advice on mobile phones for minors: It’s grounded in valid concerns, especially given cases like this where unchecked access to online content led to harmful obsessions. Strict supervision—such as parental controls, time limits, and open discussions about online risks—is indeed essential if devices are provided. An outright ban might not be feasible or ideal for everyone (e.g., for educational or safety purposes), but minimizing exposure during formative years can help prevent such escalations. Mental health experts often recommend monitoring for signs of withdrawal or fixation, and seeking professional help early if needed.