Rajasthan Panchayat Bans Smartphones For Women In 15 Villages
A panchayat in Rajasthan’s Jalore district has reportedly taken a decision to ban the use of smartphones for women in 15 villages.
The rule will come into effect from January 26 and applies to daughters-in-law and unmarried girls of the community.
According to the new order, women will not be allowed to carry smartphones with cameras while attending public gatherings, social functions, weddings, or even when visiting neighbours’ houses.
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The restriction also limits smartphone use outside the home. Instead, women have been instructed to use basic keypad mobile phones for communication.
The decision was reportedly taken during a panchayat meeting held on Sunday in Gazipur village of the Sundhamata Patti area.
The meeting was chaired by community president Sujanaram Choudhary and attended by representatives from 14 pattis, which are local community units.
The proposal was reportedly put forward by Devaram of Karnol village and read out by Panch Himmataram. After the discussion, the proposal was approved by the members present.
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Defending the move, Choudhary said the ban was introduced due to growing concerns over children’s excessive use of mobile phones.
He explained that when women carry smartphones, children often use them for long hours, which could harm their eyesight and overall health. He described the restriction as a step taken in the interest of children’s well-being.
However, the panchayat has made a partial exception for school- and college-going girls.
If mobile phones are required for educational purposes, students will be allowed to use smartphones only inside their homes. Carrying mobile phones outside the house, even for academic reasons, has been strictly prohibited.
The ban will be implemented in 15 villages, including Gazipura, Pavli, Kalda, Manojiya Vas, Rajikavas, Datalavas, Rajpura, Kodi, Sidrodi, Aladi, Ropsi, Khanadeval, Savdhar, Hathmi ki Dhani of Bhinmal, and Khanpur.
