In a significant digital policy announcement, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the state government plans to ban social media usage for children below the age of 16. The proposal was revealed while presenting the 2026–27 Karnataka State Budget, amid rising concerns over smartphone addiction and the impact of social media on young users.
The move is expected to make Karnataka one of the first Indian states to introduce such a restriction targeting minors’ access to social media platforms.
Government Cites Rising Concerns Over Digital Addiction
Announcing the measure, the Chief Minister said the decision is aimed at protecting children from excessive digital exposure and the harmful effects of social media use. Officials have highlighted concerns that growing smartphone usage among minors is affecting students’ academic focus, mental health, and overall well-being.
The proposed restriction is part of a broader effort by the state government to regulate digital consumption among young people and encourage healthier lifestyle habits.
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Proposal Follows Expert Consultations On Digital Impact
The announcement comes after the issue was discussed at a Vice-Chancellors’ conclave held in Bengaluru, where the Chief Minister sought the views of university heads on regulating social media usage among children.
In recent weeks, the state government had also been examining the broader impact of mobile phones and digital content on children, with plans to involve experts from education, mental health, and technology sectors in policy formulation.
The upcoming framework is expected to outline mechanisms to regulate or restrict social media access for minors under 16 years of age.
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Global Trend Toward Restricting Social Media For Minors
The proposed ban reflects a growing global debate over children’s online safety and social media addiction. Countries such as Australia have already adopted similar age-based restrictions, while several European nations are considering comparable measures. India, with over a billion internet users and hundreds of millions of smartphone owners, is one of the world’s largest social media markets. Experts believe the policy could significantly impact young users if implemented effectively.
However, critics argue that age-based bans may be difficult to enforce, as minors could potentially bypass restrictions using fake profiles or alternative accounts.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
