Dawoodi Bohra community in Kolkata bans mobile phones for kids under 15

The Dawoodi Bohra community in Kolkata has introduced a strict policy to restrict mobile phone usage for children under 15. This initiative, driven by Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, the spiritual leader of the Dawoodi Bohra community, seeks to reduce screen time among younger members. The decision comes in response to concerns over the negative impact of excessive mobile phone use on children’s education, social interactions, and overall health. The policy applies to all children under 15 within the community, urging parents to enforce the ban.

As part of the new policy, parents have been encouraged to engage their children in alternative activities to replace screen time. Many families have enrolled their children in winter camps designed to promote physical activity, learning, and social interaction. Others have opted for traditional board games and books as alternatives to digital devices. Local schools, including the Saifi Golden Jubilee English Public School, have been incorporating more outdoor play and group activities into their curriculum to keep children actively engaged.

This initiative aligns with similar efforts worldwide to manage screen time among children. Several European countries, including France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, have implemented mobile phone bans in schools to reduce distractions and promote a healthier learning environment. In Australia, regulations have been put in place to limit social media usage among children under 16, aiming to protect them from the risks of excessive online engagement. These measures reflect a global movement to address concerns about digital addiction and its impact on children’s development.

The Dawoodi Bohra community has also provided support for parents through counseling sessions on managing children’s screen time effectively. Reports indicate that over 90% of parents in the community have successfully limited their children’s mobile phone use by encouraging them to participate in alternative activities. This ongoing effort by the community highlights a growing recognition of the importance of balancing digital and offline activities for the well-being of children.