Mobile Gaming Addiction and Rising Anxiety: Bhopal Schools Flout CBSE Rules Despite Ghaziabad Tragedy

Bhopal: Several leading schools in Bhopal are reportedly violating CBSE regulations by operating without full-time counselors, raising concerns about students’ mental health. The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) has written to the School Education Department demanding strict audits and penalties, citing the growing anxiety among students due to excessive screen time and online gaming.

Ignoring Established CBSE Guidelines
Despite CBSE rules since 2017 mandating at least one full-time counselor in every school, many Bhopal schools are not complying. Counselors play a critical role in addressing students’ stress, cyber addiction, and interpersonal conflicts. However, budget constraints or outsourcing practices have led several schools to ignore this essential requirement.

The Growing Threat of Online Gaming
According to PTA Secretary Prabodh Pandya, students are spending hours glued to mobile devices, resulting in increased anxiety, poor academic performance, and tension at home. “Without counselors, both students and parents lack the support necessary to tackle issues like gaming addiction,” Pandya said.

PTA Calls for Action from Parents
The PTA has appealed to parents to ensure that schools comply with the regulations. They have urged families to conduct audits, enforce penalties, and hold schools accountable, emphasizing that mental well-being is crucial for students’ future, especially in today’s digital era.

Background Concern
The call for stricter implementation comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, where three sisters reportedly jumped from the 9th floor. A suicide note linked their deaths to the influence of online gaming, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support in schools.