Baghpat Khap Bans Smartphones, Half-Pants

A Caste panchayat in India — Bagpat district, India — Uttar Pradesh, has issued new social guidelines banning smartphones for teenagers (under 18-20 years) and half-pants for both boys and girls, citing concerns about 'Western influence' and cultural values. The guidelines also regulate wedding ceremonies, restricting guest lists, prohibiting excessive spending, and preferring WhatsApp invitations over physical cards. Key figures like Brajpal Singh and Amarpal Singh from the Caste panchayat have supported these decisions, emphasizing the importance of traditional values and social guidance. The panchayat aims to implement these rules across India — Uttar Pradesh and coordinate with other khaps for a statewide campaign. A similar decision in India — Rajasthan was endorsed, though a previous smartphone ban on women in District, India — Rajasthan, was later withdrawn.