A 13-year-old boy and his 21-year-old friend have died and another teenager is undergoing treatment after the trio consumed a poison in Punjab’s Nawanshahr district, allegedly over losses from online gaming and the resulting family pressure.
According to information available, the incident took place on August 10 and the three friends were reportedly together when they consumed the poisonous substance. They were subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.
Paramjit Singh Khalsa, 13, died on August 10, while Dilpreet Singh, 21, succumbed to his injuries during treatment a day later. The third boy, 15-year-old Maninder Singh, continues to receive treatment and his condition is reportedly improving.
The three were said to be close friends and often spent time together. According to village Sarpanch Hardeep Singh, preliminary information suggested that one of the boys had been playing online games and had lost a significant amount of money. This was reportedly causing him mental stress and pressure from his family.
The exact circumstances leading to the three consuming the poisonous substance, however, are yet to be established. Family members have so far refrained from commenting on the matter and have declined to appear on camera.
Senior police officer Satnam Singh also confirmed that all three were involved in gaming.
The officer said police have initiated proceedings and filed a case on its own, as the families have not submitted any complaint in connection with the incident. Police are examining all aspects of the case.
Meanwhile, Paramjit Singh Khalsa was cremated in the presence of a large number of Nihang Sikhs. They also attended the final prayer and funeral and bid a tearful farewell to the 13-year-old, referred to by villagers as ‘Chhote Khalsa’.
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(With inputs from Davinder Kumar in Nawanshahr)
Published On:
Aug 13, 2026 09:35 IST
