Panel should take lead to legally regulate mobile phone use among children: Speaker

Assembly Speaker A.N. Shamseer on Thursday called upon the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights to take the lead in legally regulating the use of mobile phones among children.

Delivering the valedictory address at the conclusion of a three-day State-level conclave on child protection laws, Mr. Shamseer emphasised the need for recommendations to curb excessive screen time among children under the age of 16.

The Speaker said the commission should examine comprehensive measures to tackle gaming addiction, which had emerged as a significant concern in the digital age.

He also stressed the importance of early intervention in safety education, stating that children must be taught to distinguish between ‘good touch and bad touch’ from a very young age.

The final day featured group discussions and special presentations intended to streamline the implementation of child protection laws. The commission will submit a detailed report that incorporates these recommendations to the State government to enhance the effectiveness of legal safeguards.

Commission chairperson K.V. Manoj Kumar chaired the valedictory session.