A 15-year-old girl from Ambernath in Maharashtra’s Thane district died after allegedly consuming poison following an argument with her mother over excessive mobile phone use. The girl passed away on October 2, 2024, while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai.
The incident occurred on September 26, when the teenager, upset after being scolded by her mother for spending too much time on her mobile phone, consumed rat poison in a moment of distress. According to an official from Ambernath police station, her family quickly rushed her to a local hospital, where her condition rapidly deteriorated.
Due to the severity of her condition, she was transferred to a hospital in neighbouring Mumbai for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, the girl succumbed to the poison and passed away after six days of intensive care. The Ambernath police registered a case of accidental death based on the medical report and statements gathered from the family.
This tragic event has brought to light the growing concerns about the impact of excessive screen time and mobile phone addiction among teenagers. Experts have frequently warned that children and adolescents when confronted about their phone usage or reprimanded for overindulgence in technology, can sometimes exhibit extreme emotional reactions.
Mental health professionals urge parents to approach such sensitive issues carefully, ensuring open communication rather than confrontational approaches. The incident has shocked the local community in Ambernath, and parents have been left reeling from the news. Neighbours and school officials expressed grief, describing the girl as bright and friendly.
While the police have classified the death as accidental, the case underscores the need for greater awareness of mental health issues, particularly among teenagers, and the importance of fostering supportive environments where young people can express their emotions without fear or pressure.