UP Government bans mobile phones in colleges and universities
What's the story
The Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has banned the use of mobile phones in colleges and universities in the state, according to a circular issued by the Directorate of Higher Education in Uttar Pradesh, IANS reported on Friday. Notably, in addition to students, the ban is also applicable to teaching faculty across all higher education institutes in the state. Here are further details.
Details
This would ensure better teaching environment for students: Government
Following the said order, students and teachers will no longer be allowed to bring or use mobile phones inside college and university premises. The move comes after the government observed that many students and teachers were using their mobiles during college hours, the circular stated. It mentioned that the move ensures "better teaching environment for students across all colleges and universities in the state."
History
Earlier, government banned mobile phone use during official meetings
In a similar vein to the said move, the UP Government had earlier banned the use of mobile phones during official meetings, including cabinet meetings. It was stated that several ministers were found using popular instant messaging app WhatsApp during these meetings. Prior to this decision, ministers were allowed to bring their phones, but they had to put them on silent mode.
Quote
"CM wants ministers to focus on issues discussed in meetings"
"The Chief Minister wants all ministers to focus on issues that are discussed in the cabinet meetings. They should not get distracted by their mobile phones," a senior official in the Chief Minister's secretariat had said, in relation to the earlier ban. "Some ministers have been busy reading messages on WhatsApp during the meeting," they had further added.