Karnataka Government Considers Mobile Phone Ban for Students Under 16 Amid Social Media Addiction Concerns

The Karnataka government is weighing a proposal to restrict mobile phone usage among students below the age of 16 in schools and colleges, amid growing concerns over rising social media addiction and its impact on young minds.

The move is still at a consultation stage, with the state seeking inputs from academic leadership before taking a final decision.

Karnataka Govt Mulls Mobile Phone Ban for Students Under 16

As part of the deliberation process, the state government has sought opinions from vice chancellors of government universities across Karnataka. Their feedback is expected to play a key role in shaping the policy framework, particularly regarding implementation challenges and academic implications.

Officials said the aim is to balance digital learning needs with safeguards against excessive and harmful screen exposure.

CM Siddaramaiah Flags Social Media Addiction, Drug Exposure Concerns

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed serious concern over the growing obsession with social media among students. He noted that excessive mobile phone use is increasingly affecting behaviour, academic performance and mental health.

The Chief Minister also warned that prolonged and unsupervised access to digital platforms was exposing children to drug-related content and unhealthy online influences at an early age.

Addressing the vice chancellors, Siddaramaiah said the issue was currently under discussion and emphasised that expert academic input was crucial before moving forward.

He stated that many children were falling prey to social media addiction and substance abuse, making it necessary to examine stricter controls on mobile phone usage within educational campuses, especially for minors.

The Chief Minister pointed out that several countries, including Australia, have already implemented restrictions on mobile phone use in schools to protect students' mental well-being and improve classroom focus.

These international examples are being studied as Karnataka explores whether similar measures could be adapted to the local education system.

No Final Decision Yet, Consultations Ongoing

Officials clarified that no final policy decision has been taken so far. The government is expected to review feedback from university heads, educators and other stakeholders before issuing any formal notification.