Bengaluru: In a major policy initiative aimed at protecting children from the harmful effects of excessive screen exposure, the Karnataka government has announced plans to prohibit the use of social media by children below the age of 16. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah while presenting the state’s Budget for the financial year 2026–27.
The proposed measure seeks to address growing concerns over the impact of smartphones and social networking platforms on the mental health, behaviour, and academic performance of young users. According to the state government, unrestricted access to social media has increasingly exposed children to cyberbullying, online harassment, addictive content, and misinformation.
Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to encourage healthier digital habits among students and create a safer online environment for minors. The government believes that limiting access to social media at an early age will help children focus more on education, physical activities, and real-world social interaction.
The proposal has emerged after consultations with education experts and academic leaders, who raised concerns about the rising dependence of students on mobile phones and social networking platforms. The government is expected to explore mechanisms such as stricter age verification and regulatory guidelines for digital platforms to ensure effective implementation of the restriction.
If implemented, Karnataka could become one of the first states in India to formally restrict social media access for users under the age of 16. The decision reflects a growing debate across the country about the influence of digital platforms on young minds and the need for stronger safeguards.
The move also follows similar discussions in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, where authorities are examining legislative options to regulate social media use among school-going children.
With concerns over digital addiction rising across the world, Karnataka’s proposal may spark wider national debate on how governments, parents, and technology companies should regulate minors’ access to social media platforms.
