Mobile ban for students under active consideration: D K Shivakumar

Bengaluru

The Karnataka government is actively deliberating a ban on mobile phone usage by students, with mounting pressure from parents demanding stricter regulation, Deputy Chief Minister (Dy.CM) and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar said on Monday.

Addressing reporters at his Sadashivanagar residence, Shivakumar confirmed that the proposal is under discussion. “There is a significant pressure from parents to ban mobile use among students. The matter is being discussed,” he stated.

Revealing that mobile phones have already been prohibited in certain government schools, he said authorities were closely monitoring misuse but declined to elaborate. “We cannot disclose how mobiles are being misused. However, we have implemented bans in our schools. Many countries have already enforced similar restrictions, and we are examining that model,” he added, indicating that Karnataka may soon align with global regulatory trends.

Dalit CM remark: “I salute him”

Responding to remarks by Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa regarding the demand for a Dalit Chief Minister, Shivakumar avoided controversy. “He is our national leader. I salute him,” he said, offering no further comment on the politically sensitive issue.

Lake water

The Dy.CM also clarified the government’s position on the alarming reports about non-potable water in Bengaluru’s lakes. “The government has never claimed that lake water is fit for drinking or bathing. These lakes are meant primarily for groundwater recharge,” he asserted.

He added that water from Thippagondanahalli Reservoir is being treated scientifically by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board before distribution, dismissing concerns over public safety.

Rural employment scheme

Taking aim at the Union government, Shivakumar alleged that the Centre has failed to provide clarity or release pending wages under the VBGRAMG scheme, calling the situation an “assault on the poor.”

“The Centre has neither clarified the future of the scheme nor released wages for past work. The scheme is virtually defunct,” he charged, informing that the state would intensify protests to safeguard the livelihoods of rural workers. 

The Dy.CM’s remarks signal brewing policy shifts in education, renewed scrutiny of Bengaluru’s environmental management, and escalating political confrontation over welfare schemes — setting the stage for contentious debates in the days ahead.