Jaipur: A panchayat in Rajasthan has banned the use of smartphones with cameras for women across 15 villages, to curb the use of the devices by children.
The ban will come into effect from January 26, both for unmarried daughters and daughter-in-law in the 15 villages in the Jalore district of the state, as reported by Hindustan Times.
Under the new rule, women will not be allowed to carry smartphones at public gatherings, social functions, weddings, or even while visiting neighbours’ houses. Instead, they have been instructed to use basic keypad mobile phones for communication. The restriction also extends beyond public spaces, significantly limiting the use of smartphones outside the home.
There is an exception for school and college-going girls. They may use smartphones for studies, when at home. Carrying mobile phones outside the house, even for academic reasons, has been prohibited.
Community president Sujanaram Choudhary defended the decision and said that the rule was introduced due to concerns over children’s excessive use of mobile phones.
When women carry smartphones, children tend to use them frequently, he claimed. This could harm their eyesight. He explained the restriction as a necessary step taken in the interest of children’s health.
This decision was taken during a meeting held on Sunday in the Gazipur village of the Sundhamata Patti area. The meeting was chaired by Choudhary and attended by representatives from 14 pattis (a local unit referring to areas dominated by a particular community).
During the meeting Panch Himmataram read out the proposal during the meeting, which was reportedly put forward by Devaram of Karnol village. After discussion, the proposal was approved by the assembled panchayat members and community representatives.
The ban will be implemented in the Gazipura, Pavli, Kalda, Manojiya Vas, Rajikavas, Datalavas, Rajpura, Kodi, Sidrodi, Aladi, Ropsi, Khanadeval, Savdhar, Hathmi ki Dhani of Bhinmal, and Khanpur villages.
Several people have questioned the decision, with critics pointing to issues such as women’s freedom, education, and access to technology.
The newspaper has quoted Anita Soni, a social activist who runs the Ekal Nari Sangathan, as saying that while the government is taking steps to empower women through technology — the previous government distributed mobile phones to women and the present BJP one is distributing tablets — deep-rooted societal mindsets continue to create serious obstacles to women’s empowerment.
She questioned why restrictions are imposed on women alone and not on men.
The police said they have not received any such complaint so far. Appropriate action will be taken if a complaint is received, officials said.
