States test social media ban for kids

Karnataka, AP take the lead; experts flag enforcement and privacy challenges

- ANEES HUSSAIN

KARNATAKA ON FRIDAY announced banning social media access for children below the age of 16, becoming the first state to announce such a move and triggering a wider debate on whether state governments can effectively regulate minors’ online activity.

Within hours, Andhra Pradesh said it would introduce restrictions on social media use by children

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under 13, signalling that the issue may quickly gather momentum across states.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the proposal while presenting the state Budget for 2026-27, saying the restriction was intended to prevent the adverse effects of rising mobile phone use among children. The government, however, said the framework for implementation and enforcement is still being worked out.

Continued on Page 7 Last month, Goa’s information technology minister had said the state government was examining the possibility of restricting social media use for children below 16 years.

Australia became the first country to introduce a nationwide ban on social media for under-16s in 2025, while several European countries are examining similar measutes.