Debate Erupts Over Mobile Phones and Self-Defense Weapons for Young Girls in Baghpat

Controversy Surrounds Mobile Phone Use and Self-Defense Proposals

In Baghpat district, a heated discussion has emerged regarding the recommendation to keep mobile phones away from underage girls and the proposal to provide them with 'revolvers' for self-defense. Meenakshi Bharala, a member of the State Women's Commission, has strongly criticized the idea of giving mobile phones to minors, advocating for a ban instead. This comes in the wake of a proposal made during a grand assembly of the All India Kshatriya Mahasabha, suggesting that daughters should be equipped with weapons like revolvers for their protection.

Bharala visited the family of a missing girl in Khindoda village on Thursday, stating, "Girls under 18 should not be given mobile phones. The use of mobiles has led to frequent incidents of blackmail, viral videos, and even suicides. Parents should monitor their daughters' activities closely."

Earlier, Thakur Kunwar Ajay Pratap Singh, president of the All India Kshatriya Mahasabha, expressed during a saffron assembly in Gauripur Mithli village that in changing times, instead of gold and silver, daughters should receive swords, daggers, or revolvers as part of their marriage. He suggested that if obtaining a revolver is challenging, a pistol could be an alternative.

Local women and social workers have expressed mixed opinions on these statements. Shubalaxmana, the head of Ladhwadi village, remarked, "Giving a revolver as part of a dowry is impractical. It implies sending your daughter down a path of crime rather than helping her settle down. However, every girl should receive self-defense training." She also agreed that restricting mobile phone access is a valid point, emphasizing that young girls should not have phones.

On the other hand, Radha, the head of the Gauripur Habibpur Gram Panchayat, stated, "Both mobile phones and revolvers have their pros and cons. Mobile phones can be a source of education and information. The issue lies in responsibility and control. With proper guidance, there shouldn't be a need for restrictions." Madhu Sharma, president of the Women Empowerment Foundation, added, "In today's context, mobile phones are essential for education and safety. Providing a revolver is not a practical solution. The government and society must take concrete steps for safety."