Rajasthan Youth Strangles 86-Year‑Old Grandmother Over Gaming Losses

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A 24‑year‑old man has been arrested in Sriganganagar district for allegedly strangling his 86‑year‑old grandmother with a towel after incurring massive financial losses from an online betting game.

The accused, identified as Manish Chugh, reportedly lost nearly ₹2 lakh playing the mobile game “Aviator” over the past year. In desperation, he took loans from relatives and lending apps, including one instance where he lost ₹15,000 in a single session. Following a scolding from his grandmother, Draupadi Devi, Manish returned home distressed and killed her by strangulation.

To cover up the crime, he allegedly staged the scene as a robbery, ransacking the house, stealing ₹18,000 in cash and gold jewelry, locking the home, and filing a false police complaint blaming unknown assailants. Law enforcement officials use technical clues, forensic analysis, and dog squad assistance to identify inconsistencies and eventually take him into custody, where he reportedly confessed to the murder.

Sriganganagar Superintendent of Police Amrita Duhan said the motive stemmed from mounting addiction and mounting debt. The grandmother’s repeated admonishments about his gaming habit appeared to have pushed him to a dangerous breaking point. The police are now urging guardians and parents to closely monitor online gaming behavior among young adults to prevent similar tragedies.

This incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of gaming addiction and its potential consequences. Experts emphasize the need for awareness, education, and early intervention to support individuals displaying signs of compulsive behavior.