Bengal CM bats for phone ban in schools, announces CM Shri schools

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has called for restricting mobile phone use in schools, citing the negative impact of screens on children. Speaking at a Teachers' Day event in Kolkata on September 5, 2026, he said that unless such issues are addressed, reforms in education or the observance of Teachers' Day would hold little significance.

"My votes may perhaps decrease. But I will still say that the use of phones in schools needs to be regulated. In Gujarat, phones are not used in schools from Class I to Class XII," Mr. Adhikari said. His remarks come amid growing concerns over children's screen time; the Karnataka government had earlier this year indicated it was considering a law to restrict mobile phone access for children under 16.

At the same event, the Chief Minister announced the opening of two 'CM Shri' schools in each district, modelled on the central government's PM Shri schools. Admissions to these institutions, he said, would be merit-based from Class VI onwards. The schools will be equipped with modern facilities, including smart boards, similar to Central Model Schools. He also revealed plans to set up large sports-related institutions in the western and northern regions of the state.

Addressing the contentious issue of teacher recruitment, Mr. Adhikari assured that his government would conduct the process transparently, adhering to the directives of the Supreme Court and the Calcutta High Court. "Merit will be the primary criterion for selection," he stated, adding that he has instructed officials to ensure the viva voce component does not exceed five marks.

The Chief Minister also confirmed that fresh recruitment would follow the recently amended OBC list. The West Bengal Legislative Assembly passed two OBC amendment bills in June 2026, removing 77 communities that were mostly added after 2010 and reverting the list to its original 66 pre-2010 categories.

The announcements come against the backdrop of corruption allegations in teacher recruitment under the previous Trinamool Congress government, which led to the arrest of several leaders, including former Education Minister Partha Chatterjee.