Karnataka mulls over mobile ban in schools, Deputy CM Shivakumar’s statement
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said on Monday that the issue of banning mobile phones in schools is being discussed and there is pressure from parents.
Responding to media questions near his home, he said, “Many countries have taken such steps. This issue is also being discussed internationally.”
When asked about banning children’s mobile phone use in schools, he said: “It is not right to publicly disclose how mobile phones are being misused. That is why this issue is being discussed.”
Regarding the issue of banning mobile phones, Home Minister G. Parameshwara said that discussions have taken place on banning mobile phones in schools and colleges. He said that giving mobile phones to children under the age of 16 is having various impacts on their studies. He added, “Many countries have conducted studies and banned mobile phones. The Chief Minister has also discussed this issue. A decision will be taken after studying the pros and cons.” When asked about Minister Mahadevappa raising the issue of a Dalit Chief Minister, Shivakumar said: “He is our national leader. I wish him all the best from here.”
Responding to a question about a report by the National Water Quality Standards Authority stating that Bengaluru’s lake water is not potable, he said: “The government has never said that lake water in Bengaluru should be used for drinking or bathing. These lakes are meant to recharge groundwater. Water from the Thippagondanahalli Reservoir is treated by the BWSSB. Bengaluru’s lake water is not for drinking or bathing.”
On the issue of Congress’s opposition to the Vikasit Bharat—Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Rural) Act, he said the central government has not issued any clarification or directive.
He said, “Even wages for previous work have not been paid. The law has become ineffective. Workers and the poor are being oppressed. We are holding a big protest against this. A ‘Save NREGA Movement’ protest has been held in Chikkaballapur.”
