Kadapa: The growing influence of social media on minors came to the fore in Kadapa after two sisters allegedly left their home in the early hours of Friday, apparently influenced by the lifestyle portrayed in social media reels.
The sisters, residents of Saipet in Kadapa city, are daughters of an auto-rickshaw driver. One of them is pursuing a beautician course, while the other is studying Intermediate. According to police, both sisters spent considerable time on social media and were reportedly attracted by the lifestyles showcased in reels and other online content.
Police said the sisters developed a desire to lead a similar lifestyle and left their home around 2 am on Friday. Their sudden disappearance created tension in the locality, with their family members searching for them before approaching the police.
Based on a complaint lodged by their father, the II Town police registered a missing case and began an investigation. Police teams searched the Kadapa bus stand and railway station, but could not find any trace of them. Special teams have now been deployed to trace them, with searches being conducted at railway stations and bus stations across the district.
Police suspect that both sisters are below 18 years of age. Their disappearance has caused severe distress to their parents, while the incident has also triggered concern among other parents after details of the case circulated on social media.
Psychiatrist Dr Endla Prabhakar said the tendency among youngsters to imitate others could be linked to identity issues. He said some youngsters, particularly those spending excessive time on social media, may develop a desire to replicate the lifestyle they see online.
Police said efforts were on to trace the sisters and ascertain the circumstances under which they left home
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