Karnataka Eyes Mobile Ban for Students Under 16

The Karnataka government is considering a ban on mobile phone use for students under 16 in schools and colleges, as part of efforts to combat social media addiction among youth. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah raised the proposal during a conference of vice chancellors from state-run universities in Bengaluru on Saturday, seeking their input on restricting access to help protect young students from its harmful effects.

Siddaramaiah highlighted growing concerns that excessive social media engagement is disrupting students' behavior, academic performance, and mental health, while also making them more vulnerable to issues like drug exposure. "Today we are discussing this, and as you are all the vice chancellors here, I seek your opinion," he told the gathering. "Children are falling prey to drugs. Also, in line with various other countries, like Australia, there is a thought to ban mobile phones among students. I want your opinion on this. We are looking at this." The chief minister specified that the measure would target minors below 16 years, sparing adult students, and noted that many young people were becoming addicted to platforms through their devices, potentially ruining their...