Karnataka Considers Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

The Karnataka government is exploring a proposal to restrict social media and mobile phone use for children under the age of 16, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah raising the idea during the presentation of the Karnataka Budget 2026.

While outlining the state’s concerns around the growing influence of digital platforms on young users, the Chief Minister said the government was studying the possibility of introducing regulations to curb excessive social media use among children.

Last month, after interacting with vice chancellors at the Karnataka State Higher Education Council, Siddaramaiah said the state was examining examples from other countries that have introduced or proposed similar age-based restrictions on social media use. 

The government, he noted, would study international models before deciding on a framework for Karnataka.

The Chief Minister also said the government is seeking opinions from education experts. Policymakers and educators have increasingly warned that children are spending long hours on smartphones and social media platforms, raising concerns about their impact on learning, behaviour and overall well-being.

Earlier this year, the Economic Survey 2025-2026 flagged excessive screen time and social media use among children and youth as a growing public health concern linked to digital addiction, anxiety, and reduced academic focus. At least two states—Goa and Andhra Pradesh—are mulling introducing age-appropriate access to social media amid concerns around screen addiction, mental health, and online safety.

However, not everyone agrees that age-based restrictions are the right solution. In an earlier discussion, Meta told AIM that the company wants to create safe and positive online experiences for young people, and believes parents should decide which apps their teens use. It supports laws that empower parents to approve teen app downloads on app stores.