Rajasthan panchayat bans women from using phones with cameras
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Jodhpur: A village panchayat in Jalore district, Rajasthan, has announced a ban on daughters-in-law and young women from using mobile phones with cameras in 15 villages, effective January 26. The decision also prohibits taking phones to public functions, social events, or neighbours’ homes. Instead, women will be allowed to use only keypad phones.
The resolution was passed during a meeting of the Chaudhary community on Sunday in Gazipur village, chaired by Sujnaram Chaudhary, president of the 14 pattis (subdivisions). Panch member Himmtaram said the decision was taken after discussions among panch members and community representatives.
Under the new rule, school-going girls may use mobile phones for studies but only at home. They are not permitted to carry phones to weddings, social events, or neighbours’ houses, Chaudhary added.
Responding to criticism, Chaudhary said the measure aims to prevent children from using women’s phones excessively, which could affect their eyesight. He noted that some women give phones to children to keep them distracted, allowing the women to focus on household chores.
The panchayat’s decision reflects a community-driven approach to regulating mobile phone usage among women, prioritising both family routines and children’s well-being.
With PTI inputs