A 15 Year Old Indian Stabs Elder Sibling Over PUBG Mobile
The World Health Organization had officially classified video game addiction under the mental health condition category a couple of months ago. This implies that individuals suffering from gaming addiction are as vulnerable as mentally impaired people. PUBG Mobile has taken the world, especially India by storm and has set the standard for the mobile gaming industry. However, many negative incidents regarding the popular have since started emerging (1,2).
A new report details a 15-year-old minor killing his elder brother after being scolded for playing PUBG Mobile excessively.
PlayerUnknown’s BattleGround (PUBG Mobile) is a battle-royale styled online multiplayer shooter. The game places a heavy emphasis on team and gunplay. Furthermore, it is an example of how a well made free-to-play game can receive critical acclaim on handheld devices if done right. Unfortunately, PUBG Mobile has been surrounded by numerous debacle after various unfavourable reports surfaced such as the death of a 16 year old that played the game for 6 hours.
According to the new report, a 15 year old boy from Bhiwandi in Thane district of Maharashtra killed his elder brother over the game. The incident allegedly occurred due to the older sibling scolding the accused for spending too much time on PUBG Mobile. This caused the aggression which led to the death of Mohammad Shaikh (19). The victim’s head was reportedly banged against the wall and was repeatedly stabbed with scissors. After being rushed to the hospital Shaikh was declared brought dead.
A case has been registered by the police officers under section 302 (Punishment for murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). PUBG Mobile has been the centre of numerous controversies all across the globe. Negative incidents such as these, spark the age-old debate regarding video game violence being mirrored in real life. Parents in India, multiple Government and even educational institutions have asked for the game being banned.
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Historically, people have always criticised video games, citing ill-effects on children caused by the content portrayed (like shooting PUBG Mobile). However, many studies such as the one from Oxford University have shown no relation of video game violence and violence in real life. This goes against the popular belief of most parents and teachers but it is still a common stigma. Issues regarding video game addictions stem from various factors ranging from the external environment and even personality. Simply blaming a game like PUBG Mobile or even banning it will not cure humankind of violence.
