Cell phones for students? Take a call

Opinion is divided on the pros and cons of students using cell phones. Whether students should be given mobile phones by parents, and allowed to use them during classes by schools, is a debatable issue. DNA's Fatema Rangwala spoke to a
cross-section of people to find out what they think…

Dr Giyan Gunani, Doctor
Due to emergence of latest technology, newer versions of mobile phones are coming out everyday. It is natural that students feel an attraction towards gadgets. But they prove a distraction form studies. But, that way one can't stop children from accessing the internet as well. Proper guidance is the answer. 

Rajendra Shukla, Advocate
Mobile phones must be prohibited during school time as they are major distractions for students.  For instance, a girl of class VIII and a boy of class XI were caught shooting a porn movie by mobile.

Raju Bholani, Businessman
There is no harm giving mobile phones to students. There are plenty of advantages. It's up to the student how he or she uses the gadget. Mobile phones can be used productively, if done so with understanding and maturity.

Husain Teenwala, engineering student
Technology is a boon for students. But if misused it can prove a bane. If a student wants to take pictures of porn or send them to others it's a case of misuse. The gadget itself can't be blamed. I
think children must become aware of the dangers of misuse of mobiles before they are given one.

Prashant Bhimani, Consultant psychologist
Some  pre-teens and teens tend to show off to attract friends. By possessing the latest mobile they feel a sense of superiority.   Also, they can get addicted to their cell phones to the extent that they can't live without them and need psychological treatment. Parents should handle the situation with proper counselling and love.

Amit Patel, Teacher
Cell phone usage has both pros and cons. Now it is almost impossible to stop teenagers from using mobiles. But, during school hours it is a no-no. Teachers should check bags of students and a penalty must be enforced if a mobile is found. The school should also guide parents about the perils of misuse of cell phones and the internet.