Rajasthan panchayat restricts women's smartphone use in 15 Jalore villages

A panchayat in Rajasthan's Jalore district has banned women from using smartphones in 15 villages, citing concerns over children's excessive mobile phone use. The ban, effective January 26, restricts women from carrying smartphones at public gatherings, social functions, or while visiting neighbors, requiring them to use basic phones instead. The decision, made to protect children's health and eyesight, has sparked debate about women's freedom and access to technology.