Children Under 16 To Be Banned From Social Media In Karnataka, Says CM
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announces plan to ban social media for children under 16 to ensure safety.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced that the state government will move to ban social media access for children under the age of 16, citing concerns over mental health, online safety, and the impact of excessive screen time on young minds. The announcement comes amid growing debates nationwide about the influence of social media on children and adolescents.
Speaking at a press conference, CM Siddaramaiah emphasized that the move aims to protect minors from exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and other online risks. “Our children’s mental and emotional well-being is a priority. Restricting social media access for those under 16 is a proactive step towards safeguarding them,” he said.
The state government is reportedly planning to implement regulatory measures in collaboration with social media platforms, internet service providers, and educational institutions. Officials are expected to outline guidelines on how the ban will be enforced, including age verification processes and monitoring mechanisms.
Also Read: DK Shivakumar Responds to Leadership Tussle: Defers to Party High Command
Experts in child psychology and digital safety have welcomed the initiative, noting that early exposure to social media can have adverse effects on attention span, emotional development, and social interactions. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the practical challenges of enforcing such a ban and the potential impact on digital literacy among young users.
Karnataka’s decision aligns with a growing trend in India and globally, where governments and advocacy groups are examining ways to protect children from the negative consequences of social media while balancing the benefits of digital engagement. The state’s policy could set a precedent for other regions considering similar measures.
The government has indicated that detailed rules and timelines for implementation will be announced in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, parents, educators, and digital platforms are being urged to participate in awareness campaigns to support children in developing healthy online habits.
Also Read: Karnataka Congress MLAs Head Abroad Amid Siddaramaiah-Shivakumar Power Struggle
