What is Blue Whale challenge, the online game linked to Indian student’s death in the US
Indian student at the University of Massachusetts was found dead in March, sparking an investigation into his death as an apparent suicide. The 20-year-old student, whose identity has been withheld at his family's request, was discovered on March 8. The case has drawn attention to the infamous "Blue Whale Challenge," an online game associated with dangerous dares and self-harm.
The student, a first-year at the University of Massachusetts, was reportedly engaged in the game, which involves completing escalating challenges over a 50-day period, culminating in self-harm and suicide tasks.
Investigation and Official Statements
Gregg Miliote, a spokesperson for the Bristol County District Attorney, confirmed that the case is being investigated as an apparent suicide. Initially misidentified as a murder victim enrolled at Boston University, the student's death has since been clarified by The Boston Globe. The authorities are awaiting the medical examiner's final report to conclude the case.
The «Blue Whale Challenge» Phenomenon
The «Blue Whale Challenge,» also known as the «suicide game,» originated in Russia in 2013 and has since spread globally. It involves a series of tasks assigned to players over 50 days, with challenges escalating from innocuous to harmful. Participants are coerced into completing these tasks through threats and manipulation.
Instances in India
India has also witnessed tragic cases linked to the «Blue Whale Challenge.» In 2017, a
