Delhi High Court Issues Guidelines For Smartphone Use In Schools

The Delhi High Court has issued guidelines for smartphone use in schools and ruled against a complete ban, stating the approach is neither practical nor desirable. Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani pointed out that technology has become an essential part of education, making a total ban on smartphones unrealistic. Kendriya Vidyalaya had requested directions on smartphone use.

The court’s direction provides a framework that schools can adapt based on their requirements. Reportedly, a copy of the court’s order has been sent to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Directorate of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi, and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan. The organisations are expected to implement the guidelines to ensure the responsible smartphone use policies in schools.

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Guidelines For Smartphone Use By Students In Schools

Delhi High Court laid down the key principles for schools through the following guidelines

• Where possible, students should deposit their smartphones during school hours.
• Smartphones should not be used in classrooms, school vehicles, or shared spaces.
• Schools must educate students on responsible online behaviour, digital manners, and ethical smartphone use.
• Students should be made aware of the risks of excessive screen time, including anxiety, reduced attention span, and cyberbullying.
• Smartphones can be used for connectivity and safety but not for entertainment or recreational purposes.
• Policies should be developed with input from parents, teachers, and experts.
• Schools should have the flexibility to create policies that suit their unique environments.
• Clear and reasonable consequences should be set for rule violations, ensuring consistent enforcement without being overly harsh.

According to UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring (GEM) team, a total of nearly 30% of the world’s total education system had enacted smartphone bans by the end of 2023, and by the end of 2024, 19 more had joined, raising the total to 79 or 40% of the total registered education systems globally.

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So far, India does not have a specific, nationwide law or policy regarding smartphone use in educational institutions. The approach varies by state and individual schools, with some institutions implementing their own guidelines or restrictions.