📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / ANKAN
Politics
Karnataka Seeks Centre's Nod to Ban Social Media for Under-16s
✍️ India Today NE
🗓 21 Oct 2026, 11:36 AM
👁 11
The Karnataka government is planning to restrict social media access for children under 16 and has formally sought the support of the central government to implement these measures.
The Karnataka state government has announced its intention to introduce restrictions on social media usage for minors under the age of 16. The move is part of a broader effort to safeguard the digital well-being of young users in the state.
To proceed with this initiative, the state administration has reached out to the central government, seeking their support and necessary approvals. Since social media regulation falls under the concurrent jurisdiction of both state and central authorities, Karnataka requires the Centre's cooperation to enforce such restrictions effectively.
The proposal aims to limit the exposure of children to potentially harmful online content and digital distractions. By targeting the under-16 demographic, the state hopes to mitigate the risks associated with excessive screen time and online interactions for young minds.
This development marks a significant step in Karnataka's approach to digital safety, aligning with global trends where several nations are considering or implementing age-based restrictions on social media platforms.
To proceed with this initiative, the state administration has reached out to the central government, seeking their support and necessary approvals. Since social media regulation falls under the concurrent jurisdiction of both state and central authorities, Karnataka requires the Centre's cooperation to enforce such restrictions effectively.
The proposal aims to limit the exposure of children to potentially harmful online content and digital distractions. By targeting the under-16 demographic, the state hopes to mitigate the risks associated with excessive screen time and online interactions for young minds.
This development marks a significant step in Karnataka's approach to digital safety, aligning with global trends where several nations are considering or implementing age-based restrictions on social media platforms.