India Mulls Social Media Restrictions for Children Amid Global Trends

Thu Feb 05 2026 12:31:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As discussions around implementing a ban on social media usage for children under 16 gain traction in India, experts voice concerns over the feasibility and implications of such measures.

India is examining the possibility of restricting social media access for children under 16, following Australia’s recent ban. While some ministers support the idea, experts warn that enforcement could face legal hurdles and implementation challenges. Opposition from social media platforms, concerns about age verification, and a lack of parental engagement are central to the ongoing debate.

India Mulls Social Media Restrictions for Children Amid Global Trends

A debate around banning social media for children under 16 is gathering momentum in India, mirroring a recent law in Australia that restricts access for minors. Various ministers from southern states are exploring the viability of such a ban, suggesting that it could potentially safeguard children's mental health.

Among the recent discussions, the Economic Survey—an annual report led by India’s chief economic adviser—advocated for age-based restrictions on social media use by children. While these recommendations are not binding, they may influence future policy decisions.

However, the road ahead for implementing a ban is fraught with challenges. Experts assert that enforcing state-level restrictions could lead to significant legal dilemmas and logistical complications. Nikhil Pahwa, a digital rights activist, highlighted the difficulties in age verification and the potential for users to bypass such restrictions.

Australia, recently the first country to implement such a law, has faced backlash from social media platforms, with compliance already presenting challenges. Similar discussions are also taking place in France, where lawmakers are considering banning social media for under-15s, and in the UK, which is contemplating similar moves.

In India, LSK Devarayalu, a lawmaker from Andhra Pradesh, proposed a bill to ban social media for children under 16, although it is unlikely to become law. The Andhra Pradesh government has assembled a group of ministers to analyze global regulatory frameworks and consult with major tech platforms.

Critics are concerned that simply banning social media access may not address the deeper issues of digital engagement among children. Many argue that inadequate parental involvement and guidance in children’s online activities contribute to excessive use of social media.

Jitender Yadav, a parent of two young daughters, stressed that unless parents support their children’s activities and monitor their media consumption, any social media ban might be ineffective.

As discussions continue, both government officials and experts are weighing the implications of such moves, balancing the necessity of protecting children with the realities of digital law enforcement.