Jalore, Rajasthan — A controversial decision by a local community body in Jalore district has made headlines after 15 villages announced a ban on camera‑enabled smartphones for women and girls, effective January 26, 2026. The ruling, passed by the Sundhamaata Patti Panchayat of the Chaudhary community, applies to daughters‑in‑law and young women across the clustered villages.
Under the directive, women and girls will not be allowed to use or carry camera phones to public gatherings, social functions, weddings, or even when visiting neighbours’ homes. Instead, they are permitted to use basic keypad phones without cameras for communication.
The ban was justified by community leaders as a step to curb excessive mobile phone use and concerns about children’s eyesight and screen addiction. However, the decision has sparked widespread criticism and debate over women’s rights and digital freedom in modern India, with many critics arguing that it restricts women’s autonomy and access to technology.
The directive has also drawn the attention of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which has taken suo motu notice of the matter and issued a notice to the Jalore District Magistrate, highlighting concerns about potential discrimination and violation of fundamental rights.
Reported by Neha Jaiswal.
