Rajasthan Caste Panchayat Bans Smartphones for Married Women

Panchayat decision and scope

The resolution was adopted by the Sundhamata Patti panchayat of the Chaudhary clan , which exercises informal influence over 15 villages in the Bhinmal–Khanpur belt. Under the diktat, daughters-in-law and young married women are barred from using camera-enabled smartphones at weddings, public functions, neighbourhood visits or community gatherings. They are permitted to use only basic keypad phones for voice calls. The proclamation was publicly announced by panch Himmataram and endorsed by elders present at the meeting.

Reasons cited by community leaders

Community head Sujanaram Chaudhary said the ban was intended to curb “mobile addiction” and protect children’s eyesight. He argued that children often access smartphones through women in the household, leading to excessive screen time. According to the panchayat, restricting smartphone use would promote family discipline and child wellbeing.

Limited educational exception

Girls pursuing formal education have been granted a narrow exception to use smartphones at home for academic purposes only . Even they are prohibited from carrying smartphones to social events or while visiting neighbours. The ban applies to villages including Ghazipur, Pawali, Kalda, Manojiyawas, Rajikawas, Datlawas, Rajpura, Kodi, Sidrodi, Aldi, Ropsi, Khanadewal, Savidhar, Hathmi Ki Dhani and Khanpur.

Criticism and broader debate

Videos of the announcement circulated widely on social media, triggering condemnation. Critics argue the diktat reinforces gender control , undermines digital access and empowerment , and has no legal standing. The episode has reignited debate on gender equality, fundamental rights and the continuing influence of extra-legal caste bodies in rural India.

Exam-Focused Points

• Caste panchayats are informal bodies with no constitutional authority

• Restrictions on personal choice can conflict with fundamental rights

• Digital access is linked to education, welfare and empowerment

• Gender-based social controls remain a key issue in social reform debates