Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba expresses concern over online lottery scams and cybercrime menace

Sikkim Lok Sabha MP, Indra Hang Subba voiced grave concerns on May 4 regarding the growing menace of online lottery schemes and the rampant rise of cybercrimes in the state. Addressing the issue, Subba highlighted the devastating impact of fraudulent online lottery platforms that prey on vulnerable individuals with false promises of instant wealth, only to trap them in a cycle of financial ruin, emotional distress, and, in some cases, blackmail.

“Online lotteries have become a serious threat, affecting countless families. These scams lure people in with the promise of easy money, but they end up causing significant losses and trauma,” Subba said. He stressed the importance of educating communities about such frauds and raising awareness to prevent further harm.

The MP also pointed out the increasing prevalence of online luxury platforms, which are gaining traction in many villages. According to Subba, this trend has the potential to lead to broader societal challenges, especially concerning accessibility to mobile phones and the internet. “With the popularity of online luxury schemes, we are facing a situation where people may no longer be able to afford basic technologies like mobile phones, or even use the internet freely. These are rights that should be accessible to all,” he added.

Subba further emphasized the need for financial literacy, particularly among students, to tackle the growing issue of online loans and gaming platforms. “Many students and individuals are falling prey to loans offered through apps that they don’t fully understand. When they lose money in games, they are harassed by messages demanding repayment, leading to further financial distress,” he said.

The MP pointed out that the lack of financial literacy and awareness regarding banking practices is contributing to the rise in suicides linked to online financial harassment. “We need to take this seriously. I don’t want to see this continue, and I don’t want to witness more lives lost to these digital scams. We must act now,” Subba said.

Subba called for collective efforts to tackle the challenges posed by these online threats, urging the government, educational institutions, and communities to come together to safeguard the well-being of citizens, especially the youth.