Pune, July 30: In a tragic incident, a 15-year-old boy in Pimpri-Chinchwad jumped off a 14-floor building on the night of July 25 to complete a Blue Whale challenge. According to police records, this is yet another shocking incident linked to the online game Blue Whale Challenge. Let’s understand what it is and how to protect children from its dangers.

The victim, a class 10 student, was the son of a father who works abroad. His mother received the tragic news through the Society WhatsApp group. The police reported that the boy sketched his intention to complete the game by ending his life on a sheet of paper after locking himself in his room for several hours while his mother was nearby. Blue Whale Challenge: Pune Schoolboy Dies After Jumping Off 14th Floor To Complete Task in Notorious Blue Whale Online Game.

What is the Blue Whale Challenge?

A Blue Whale Challenge is an online game that is shockingly popular among teenagers. The game requires you to complete dangerous tasks over a period of 50 days. These tasks start with simple actions but gradually become more harmful, eventually leading to self-harm and, in the final challenge, to suicide. Several countries, including India, issued warnings about the game. Blue Whale Suicide Game: Indian Student’s Death in the US Possibly Linked to Macabre Online Game of Dares Called ‘Blue Whale Challenge’.

How To Protect Children From the Blue Whale Challenge?

In response to the growing number of teenagers falling victim to the Blue Whale Challenge, the Government of India has issued an advisory to raise awareness and prevent further incidents related to this dangerous online game. The advisory says to look out for signs such as withdrawal from friends and family, persistent low mood, excessive worry, sudden anger outbursts, loss of interest in activities, and visible marks like deep cuts or wounds on the child's body.

Further, for protection, the guideline asks to check in with your child regularly, ask about their day, and listen for any signs of distress or worry. Avoid mentioning the Blue Whale Challenge unless you know they are aware of it. Monitor their online activity for secretive behaviour, increased screen time, sudden changes in contacts, or withdrawal after using the internet. Use parental control software to monitor their online activity, and consult a child counsellor at school regularly. If you suspect your child is at risk, seek professional help immediately and reassure them of your support.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 30, 2024 01:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).