UP Panchayats Impose Smartphone and Dress Restrictions on Children

Lucknow: Village panchayats in Uttar Pradesh have imposed restrictions on children using mobile phones and wearing shorts. The panchayats claim that these measures are intended to protect local culture and prevent children from going astray. These unusual guidelines have been issued in several villages of Muzaffarnagar district.

According to a decision taken jointly by village elders and panchayat representatives, children below the age of 18 are not allowed to use smartphones. Panchayat office-bearers said the move aims to prevent children from being drawn toward pornographic websites and harmful trends on social media.

In addition to mobile phone usage, the panchayats have also imposed restrictions on children’s clothing. Girls and boys have been advised not to wear shorts in public places, as the panchayat claims this is against the village’s sense of decency and cultural values.

The panchayats are also considering imposing fines on families that violate these directives. However, there is growing criticism that such bans amount to an intrusion into personal freedom.