Punjab: A 13-year-old boy and his 21-year-old friend have died in Punjab’s Nawanshahr district after they allegedly consumed poison along with another teenager, with preliminary information suggesting that online gaming losses and family pressure may have been involved.

The incident took place on August 10, when the three friends were reportedly together and consumed a poisonous substance.

Paramjit Singh Khalsa, 13, died the same day, while Dilpreet Singh, 21, died during treatment on August 11.

The third boy, 15-year-old Maninder Singh, remains under treatment and his condition is reportedly improving.

Online gaming losses under investigation

According to village Sarpanch Hardeep Singh, preliminary information indicated that one of the boys had lost a significant amount of money while playing online games.

The losses were reportedly causing him stress and pressure from his family.

However, authorities have not established the exact circumstances that led the three to consume the poisonous substance.

A senior police officer, Satnam Singh, confirmed that all three were involved in gaming. Police are examining all aspects of the incident.

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Police begin investigation

Police have initiated proceedings and registered a case on their own after the families did not submit a complaint.

Officials are investigating what happened before the three teenagers consumed the substance and whether online gaming losses were directly connected to the incident.

Family members have so far declined to comment publicly.

Teen's funeral held in Punjab

Paramjit Singh Khalsa was cremated in the presence of a large number of Nihang Sikhs.

Villagers referred to the 13-year-old as 'Chhote Khalsa', and Nihang Sikhs also attended his final prayer and funeral.

The incident has again raised concerns about the risks associated with online gaming when real-money losses, financial pressure and family conflict become involved.

However, the gaming-related circumstances in this case remain based on preliminary information. Police are still investigating the sequence of events, and no conclusion has been established about what directly led to the poison intake.

The fact that one of those involved was only 13 also puts renewed focus on how children and teenagers access online games, handle in-game or real-money losses, and seek help when gaming begins creating serious financial or emotional pressure.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek help from a trusted person or mental health professional. In India, you can contact Tele-MANAS at 14416, a free, confidential, 24/7 mental health helpline.