Unplugging the Future: Karnataka’s Bold Move to Ban Mobile Phones for Under-16 Students Amid Social Media Addiction Crisis
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced plans to consider a mobile phone ban for students under 16, citing rising concerns over social media addiction. Addressing vice-chancellors during a recent meeting, he emphasized, “Today as we discuss this, I seek the opinion of all the VCs present here. Children are falling prey to drugs.” The CM pointed out that the government is exploring a mobile ban similar to actions taken in countries like Australia, indicating a serious commitment to addressing this pressing issue.
In related news, Karnataka’s Minister for Electronics and IT, Priyank Kharge, revealed ongoing consultations aimed at promoting responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media among children during a Legislative Assembly session. Responding to concerns raised by senior BJP MLA Suresh Kumar about early exposure of children to social media and inappropriate content, Kharge noted Australia’s recent restrictions on social media use for those under 16. He referenced the Indian government’s Economic Survey, which recommended establishing age limits for platform access to curb digital addiction and underscored the growing need for regulations surrounding social media.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Kumar stated, “This is a very serious matter, so our state should also take a decision regarding social media.” He pointed to the example set by Goa, which is reportedly considering similar restrictions. Kharge acknowledged these concerns, reiterating that the Karnataka government is actively holding discussions to ensure responsible digital practices.
Karnataka is not alone in this endeavor; the Goa government is also exploring a plan to restrict social media access for children under 16. Goa’s Minister for Tourism and Information Technology, Rohan Khaunte, stated, “Australia has brought in a law ensuring a ban on social media for children below the age of 16.” The state is analyzing bureaucratic measures to potentially implement similar regulations.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh’s government is contemplating stricter controls on social media for minors. Education Minister Nara Lokesh highlighted issues such as online harassment and the negative impact of excessive screen time on children’s learning. He noted that a study is underway to evaluate legal frameworks that ensure age-appropriate online access, drawing comparisons to regulations enacted in countries like Singapore and France.
Nara Lokesh expressed the need for collaborative efforts, inviting major social media platforms like Meta, X, and Google to discussions aimed at reviewing global best practices for user safety. He insisted that immediate action is necessary to protect children from the adverse effects of social media.
As international concerns grow regarding children’s safety online, Karnataka, Goa, and Andhra Pradesh are paving the way for potential regulatory measures. These discussions reflect a heightened awareness of the challenges posed by social media, which continues to evolve rapidly.
As these jurisdictions engage in serious policy planning, the conversation around responsible social media usage for minors is expected to intensify, potentially leading to significant changes in how children interact with digital platforms.
In summary, with increasing social media addiction among minors prompting state governments to consider bans and regulatory measures, Karnataka and its neighboring states stand on the brink of significant policy shifts aimed at protecting young users from the perils of online exposure.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/karnataka-eyes-mobile-ban-on-students-under-16-cm-siddaramaiah-cites-social-media-addiction-11771735915455.html
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Publish Date: 2026-02-22 11:50:00
