India Weighs Social Media Restrictions for Children Amid Rising Concerns

Fri Feb 06 2026 01:26:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In response to rising concerns about children's social media use, Indian lawmakers are considering implementing restrictions similar to Australia’s recent ban for users under 16. However, experts caution that enforcing such regulations may be challenging.

The debate over restricting social media access for children under 16 is intensifying in India, with several ministers exploring the legislative framework inspired by a new law in Australia. Despite proposed measures, experts warn of complications in enforcing such bans due to legal, logistical, and societal challenges. Recent suggestions from the Economic Survey advocate for age-based limits, although significant hurdles like age verification remain a concern. As discussions continue, parents express mixed feelings about how to best engage children regarding technology use.

India Weighs Social Media Restrictions for Children Amid Rising Concerns

In response to increasing apprehensions surrounding children's engagement with social media, discussions are gaining traction within the Indian government to potentially impose restrictions on platforms accessible to users under the age of 16. State ministers in southern India are reportedly examining the implications of establishing similar regulations as those recently put into action in Australia.

The Australian law requires social media platforms to verify users’ ages, effectively prohibiting access to anyone younger than 16—making Australia the first nation to impose such a ban. In India, at least two southern states are actively evaluating whether a similar ban would successfully deter minors from using social media.

Last week, the Economic Survey, a report created by India's chief economic adviser, suggested that the federal government consider implementing age-based restrictions for youth access to social media. Although the recommendations from the Economic Survey are non-binding, they could influence future policies.

Despite the growing momentum for such legislation, experts are cautioning that implementing a ban may pose significant challenges, including potential legal ramifications and the complexities of enforcing compliance. Digital rights activist Nikhil Pahwa highlighted the difficulties in ensuring age verification and the complications arising from state-level discrepancies.

Politicians in Andhra Pradesh, aligned with the federal coalition, have proposed legislation aimed at banning social media for minors—although this individual bill is unlikely to reflect wider governmental policy. The Andhra Pradesh government has also formed a committee to investigate global regulatory measures, seeking feedback from major tech platforms.

As interest in social media restrictions spreads to other states like Goa and Karnataka, parents are voicing their concerns, pointing out the importance of actively engaging children rather than merely instituting bans. Some express skepticism about the effectiveness of restrictions, noting that it doesn't address the root causes of excessive screen time.

The ongoing discourse surrounding social media regulation highlights a complex mix of public health concerns, digital rights, and parental involvement in children's online behavior. As this issue continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether India will follow in the footsteps of Australia or forge a different path in managing children's access to digital platforms.