The debate over smartphone use in schools has been reignited with the Delhi High Court’s recent ruling. While some advocate for a complete ban, the court has taken a balanced approach, acknowledging both the benefits and risks of smartphones in students’ lives. Instead of enforcing a blanket ban, the Delhi HC has framed new guidelines to regulate smartphone use responsibly.
Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani, who presided over the case, stated that banning smartphones altogether is “undesirable and unworkable” in today’s digital age. The court recognized that while excessive screen time, cyberbullying, and anxiety are serious concerns, smartphones also play a crucial role in student safety and communication.
Many parents rely on smartphones to stay connected with their children, especially in emergency situations. Moreover, with education increasingly integrating technology, a total ban would ignore the evolving needs of students.
To ensure a structured and responsible use of smartphones in schools, the Delhi High Court has introduced practical guidelines instead of an outright ban.
The court’s decision was prompted by a case involving a minor student at a Kendriya Vidyalaya who faced disciplinary action for smartphone misuse. This incident highlighted the lack of clear and effective policies regarding smartphone use in schools.
Justice Bhambhani noted that earlier CBSE and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) guidelines from 2009 failed to achieve the desired outcome. This new framework aims to provide better regulation while maintaining a fair approach.
The Delhi HC’s decision provides schools with a flexible yet structured framework. Educational institutions can customize these guidelines based on their unique needs while ensuring students benefit from technology without falling into its pitfalls.
With the CBSE and KVS receiving copies of the order, implementation is expected across schools soon. The move is seen as a progressive step towards a balanced approach, where technology serves as a learning aid rather than a distraction.
The Delhi HC’s ruling acknowledges that in the modern digital era, smartphones are both a necessity and a challenge. Instead of an impractical ban, the court has offered a realistic solution—regulate, educate, and enforce responsible use.
With proper implementation, these new guidelines could set a positive precedent for schools nationwide, ensuring that students use smartphones wisely while maintaining a healthy and productive learning environment.