Centre Considers Social Media Ban for Children Amid Growing Concerns

• The Centre is exploring tough new rules, including restricting or prohibiting children's access to social media platforms.
• Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) has held discussions with platforms and stakeholders to assess technical limitations for age-based access.
• Karnataka announced a ban for children under 16, while Andhra Pradesh targets under 13s and explores a graded approach for 13-16 year olds.
• Internationally, Australia has banned social media for under 16s, with France, Spain, Indonesia, and several US states considering similar measures.
• NHRC identified "serious, large-scale, and systemic violations" by digital platforms affecting children, urging ministries to investigate.