TheKarnatakagovernment is mulling a mobile phone ban on students under 16 years of age, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, adding that access to phones may soon be restricted for school and college-going children across the state. The state government is considering the move and sought the opinion of vice chancellors of government universities.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah raised concerns over rising social media addiction among students and its impact on drug exposure, behaviour, education and their mental health.
"Today we are discussing this, and as you are all Vice Chancellors here, I seek your opinion. Children are falling prey to drugs," the chief minister said.
He further sought the opinion of the university heads on restricting mobile phones on campuses for minors. While many of the VCs agreed with the proposal, some pointed out that several private schools, especially elite institutions, assign homework through mobile phones.
"I want your opinion on this. We are looking at this for children below the age of 16, not adults. Many of them are falling prey and are addicted to social media," he added.
The move, if implemented, could bring Karnataka in line with countries like Australia that have already imposed similar restrictions on phone usage among school students.
"Also, in line with various other countries like Australia, there is a thought to ban mobile phones among students," CM Siddaramaiah said.
Earlier on Friday, Karnataka’s Minister for Electronics and IT/BT, Priyank Kharge, informed the Legislative Assembly informed the Legislative Assembly that the state government is consulting measures to ensure responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media for children.
Kharge cited Australia’s move to restrict social media access for those under 16, adding that the Centre’s Economic Survey has also proposed fixing a minimum age for using such platforms.
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