Social Media Ban For Minors In India? Experts 'Like' Idea, But With Caveats
Experts are debating the potential implementation of a social media ban for minors in India, citing concerns over mental health, addiction, and exposure to harmful content. While some support the move, others emphasize the role of digital platforms in education and personal development.
Why it matters
The discussion reflects a global trend in regulating digital spaces for children, balancing safety concerns against the necessity of digital literacy in a modern society.
Brazil, Australia, and Indonesia have already passed legislation banning social media for minors under 16 years of age. The European Union is also approaching stricter age authentication and limits for children. As authorities across the globe doubt minors' access to social media, it's becoming difficult for India to ignore the question: Should minors still be allowed unlimited access to sites with addictive algorithms meant to maximise engagement?According to UNICEF, India has the largest youth population in the world, including 371 million young people between the ages of 15 to 29, as of 2024. The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 also stated that 82.2 per cent of Indian children aged 14 to 16 can use a smartphone, of which 76 per cent use it for social media, while only 57 per cent use it for education.
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