Chittoor farmer, 60, dies after alleged assault by son-in-law over online gaming
A 60-year-old farmer died in Chittoor district on Sunday morning after his son-in-law allegedly assaulted him following a dispute over online gaming, police said.
The incident took place at the ST Colony of Ramgampeta Cross village in Puthalapattu mandal. The deceased has been identified as Subramanyam, a resident of the area.
According to the Puthalapattu police, Subramanyam had reprimanded his son-in-law, Ashok, 30, for spending excessive time playing online games. The argument escalated, and Ashok allegedly lost his temper and repeatedly punched Subramanyam.
The assault left Subramanyam struggling to breathe. He collapsed and died before he could be taken to a hospital. The police have sent the body to the government hospital in Chittoor for post-mortem examination.
Ashok allegedly fled the scene after the incident. The police have registered a case and launched a search to trace him.
While the exact sequence of events is yet to be established, initial findings suggest that the dispute over the victim's son-in-law's gaming habit led to the violent altercation. Police said further investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the death.
Domestic violence experts point out that such incidents, though tragic, highlight growing concerns over the impact of excessive online gaming on interpersonal relationships, especially within families. However, authorities have urged the public not to jump to conclusions and to allow the legal process to take its course.
The police have appealed to anyone with information about Ashok's whereabouts to come forward. Legal proceedings under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code are expected to be initiated against the accused once he is apprehended.
This case also underscores the importance of addressing domestic disputes through dialogue and intervention mechanisms, rather than resort to violence, say social workers. Family counselling and mental health support can play a crucial role in preventing such tragedies, they add.
