Senior IPS Officer Warns Against Online Betting After Student’s Tragic Death
Hyderabad: Senior IPS officer and Managing Director of Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC), VC Sajjanar, has warned about the dangers of online betting after a heartbreaking incident involving a student’s death.
Sajjanar shared his concerns on social media, urging youngsters to avoid the lure of easy money. He mentioned the tragic case of a degree student who lost his life due to debts from online betting. “Parents dream of a bright future for their children, but online betting is destroying lives. Youngsters, do not fall into this trap,” he posted on ‘X’.
The student, Sirikonda Nikhil Rao, was a 22-year-old third-year BSc Agriculture student in Hyderabad. He was a resident of Mannempalli in Karimnagar district. Nikhil had accumulated heavy debts due to online betting. Feeling helpless, he chose not to board a bus back to college and instead returned to his village. Sadly, he ended his life by jumping into an agricultural well.
In addition to raising awareness, Sajjanar also discussed the regulation of betting apps with Anvesh, a world traveler from the Telugu States. He highlighted the role of social media influencers in promoting these apps and the need for strict action. “We need to explore the real impact of these apps and the steps authorities are taking to control them,” he said.
Sajjanar also praised RTC staff for their dedication, mentioning that bus drivers save many lives daily and conductors walk over 12 km inside buses while issuing tickets. He described public transport as a “great university” that teaches valuable life lessons.
Calling for stricter action, Sajjanar compared those promoting betting apps to “cyber terrorists” who endanger digital safety and financial security. His message serves as a strong warning to youngsters to stay away from online betting and protect their future.
