Panchayat issues regressive order: ban on women using smartphones in 15 villages, rule to take effect from January 26

Jalore (The Uttam Hindu): In a surprising development from Rajasthan’s Jalore district during the era of Digital India, a local panchayat has issued a controversial order restricting women’s freedom. The Chaudhary Samaj Sundhamata Patti panchayat has decided that women and girls from 15 villages of the community will not be allowed to use smartphones or camera-enabled mobile phones. This rule will come into force from January 26.

The decision was taken during a community meeting held on Sunday in Gazipur village under the chairmanship of 14 Patti president Sujanaram Chaudhary. After deliberations on a proposal presented by Devaram Karnol, the panchayat resolved that women may use only basic keypad phones instead of smartphones. The order further states that women will not be permitted to carry mobile phones while attending weddings, social functions, or even when visiting neighbours.

While reading out the resolution, panch Himmataram said a limited exemption has been given to girl students. If a smartphone is required for studies, students may use it only inside their homes. They will not be allowed to carry mobile phones outside under any circumstances.

Explaining the reasoning behind the decision, community president Sujanaram Chaudhary said that children tend to use smartphones kept by women at home, which could harm their eyesight. He claimed this concern made it necessary to impose strict restrictions.

The rule will be implemented in villages including Gazipura, Pavli, Kalda, Manojia Vas, Rajikavas, Datalavas, Rajpura, Kodi, Sidrodi, Aaldi, Ropsi, Khanadeval, Savdhar, Khanpur and Hathmi Ki Dhani in Bhinmal. As news of the decision spread, it triggered sharp criticism on social media, with many calling the move outdated and regressive.