What is 'Blue Whale Challenge' linked to Indian student's death
A 20-year-old Indian student studying at the University of Massachusetts was found dead in March. The death of the first-year student was previously reported as murder, but Gregg Miliote, a spokesperson for the Bristol County District Attorney, has now stated that the case is being investigated as "apparent suicide." Officials believe the 20-year-old was playing the "Blue Whale Challenge," an online game that has also been dubbed a "suicide game" because its ultimate challenge requires the user to kill themselves.
'Blue Whale Challenge': A game of life and death
The challenge reportedly originated in Russia but quickly spread to Ukraine, India, and the United States. Hundreds of deaths have been linked to this so-called "suicide game." The challenge starts with seemingly harmless tasks such as waking up at unusual hours or watching a horror movie. As the game progresses, the challenges become increasingly dangerous, including standing on the edge of a high-rise building or self-harming. The final task shockingly involves the players taking their own lives.
Global impact of the 'Blue Whale Challenge'
The game's roots can be traced back to Rina Palenkova, a Russian teenager who committed suicide in 2015 after posting a selfie with the caption, "Nya bye." Palenkova's death sparked discussions in chat rooms where teenagers discussed school, crushes, sadness, loneliness, and suicide. Some praised Palenkova for taking her own life. Palenkova's story eventually merged with other accounts of teen suicide. On Christmas Day 2015, 12-year-old Angelina Davydova took her own life. Another teen, Diana Kuznetsova, followed a fortnight later.
IT Ministry labels 'Blue Whale Challenge' as 'Abetment to Suicide'
According to IANS, the Indian government had wanted to ban this game years ago but instead settled for a more detailed advisory. In an advisory issued in 2017, the IT ministry described the game as "abetment to suicide." The ministry also warned that players find it impossible to quit once they start, as they are subjected to cyberbullying and blackmail to finish the game.
Please seek help if you are having suicidal thoughts
If you or anyone you know is suffering from suicidal thoughts, you can reach out to AASRA for suicide prevention counseling. Its number is 022-27546669 (24 hours). You can also dial Roshni NGO at +914066202000 or COOJ at +91-83222-52525. Sneha India Foundation, which works 24x7, can be contacted at +91-44246-40050. Vandrevala Foundation's helpline number is +91-99996-66555 (call and WhatsApp).
