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Ghaziabad –  Three minor sisters were found dead in the early hours of Wednesday after falling from the balcony of their ninth-floor apartment in Ghaziabad, prompting a police investigation into what officials believe may have followed a dispute at home related to excessive online gaming.

The incident occurred at a high-rise residential tower in Bharat City township, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Teela Mor police station. Residents of the building reported hearing a loud noise between 2:00 am and 2:15 am. When they went outside to check, the three girls were found lying unconscious on the ground near the tower.

Victims Rushed to Hospital but Declared Dead

Police identified the victims as sisters aged 12, 14, and 16. Emergency services were alerted immediately, and the girls were rushed to a nearby hospital in Loni. Doctors, however, declared them dead on arrival. The news sent shockwaves through the residential complex, with several residents gathering at the site as police cordoned off the area.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Kumar Singh, who oversees the Shalimar Garden circle, said initial findings suggest the incident may have followed tensions within the family. According to preliminary inquiries, the sisters had been spending a significant amount of time on an online task-based interactive game.

Family Dispute Linked to Online Gaming

Police officials said the parents had expressed concern over their daughters’ growing dependence on online gaming. “The family had objected to the excessive time the girls were spending on online games. This appears to have led to discussions and disagreements at home,” Singh said.

Investigators noted that the sisters had reportedly begun missing school more frequently in recent months. Most of their time was spent together at home, often engaged in online activities. Officers added that the siblings were closely bonded and tended to carry out most daily routines together, including studying and playing games.

No Suicide Note Found So Far

Authorities have not recovered any suicide note from the apartment or the surrounding area. Police emphasized that the investigation is still at an early stage and that all possible angles are being examined. “At this point, no conclusion has been drawn. We are carefully reconstructing the sequence of events leading up to the incident,” a senior officer said.

Teams have seized the girls’ mobile phones and other electronic devices for forensic examination. Investigators are also recording statements from family members, neighbors, and others who may have relevant information.

Ongoing Investigation and Post-Mortem Examination

The bodies of the three sisters have been sent for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death and establish further medical details. Police said the results would be crucial in understanding the circumstances surrounding the fall.

Officials added that they are coordinating with forensic experts and child welfare authorities as part of the inquiry. Counseling support is also being considered for family members affected by the tragedy.

Broader Concerns Over Screen Time

While police continue their investigation, the incident has once again drawn attention to broader concerns around excessive screen time and online gaming among children and teenagers. Law enforcement officials stressed the importance of open communication within families and early intervention when behavioral changes are noticed in minors.

Authorities have urged parents and guardians to remain attentive to their children’s online habits and emotional well-being, while reiterating that the current case is under thorough examination and no assumptions should be made until the investigation is complete.