A VILLAGE in India imposed a ban on unmarried women and minor girls from owning cellphones.

    Women found in violation of this ban will be fined about US$30 while the person who reported the offense would receive a reward of almost US$3.

    “Why do girls need cellphones? Internet is a waste of time and money for a middle-class community like us. Girls should better utilize their time for study and other work,” village leader Devshi Vankar said.

    Villagers in Suraj reportedly agreed with the decision, as cellphones are viewed as tools used by young people to leave their homes and elope.

    Girls are allowed to use cellphones at home with the supervision of their parents and women attending college are completely exempt from the ban.

    Vankar said banning young girls from using mobile phones would protect them from being distracted in class and being harassed by men on messaging apps.(SD-Agencies)