Karnataka has announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16. The southern Indian state, which is home to the technology hub of Bengaluru, became the first state in the country to introduce such a restriction. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed the decision on Friday during his budget speech.
The move comes as governments increasingly debate how rising smartphone and internet usage affects young people. Authorities in Karnataka say the policy aims to protect children from the harmful impacts of excessive mobile and social media use.
Karnataka introduces social media ban for minors
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that the state government will prohibit children younger than 16 from using social media platforms. The announcement came during the presentation of the state budget.
He said the measure aims to address growing concerns about how increased mobile phone usage affects children’s health and development. According to the chief minister, the restriction focuses on limiting the exposure of young users to social media environments.
“With the objective of preventing adverse effects of increasing mobile usage on children, usage of social media will be banned for children under the age of 16,” Siddaramaiah said during the speech.
Therefore, Karnataka becomes the first Indian state to formally introduce such a policy targeting underage social media use.
Concerns over growing mobile phone use among children
The decision reflects rising concern about the impact of smartphones and social media on younger users. Policymakers increasingly warn that excessive screen time may affect mental health, concentration and overall well being.
Children today gain access to smartphones and internet platforms at increasingly younger ages. As a result, governments and educators are exploring ways to regulate digital exposure among minors.
Supporters of the restriction argue that early social media use may expose children to online harassment, harmful content and unhealthy digital habits. They believe limits could encourage more balanced use of technology.
Part of a wider global debate on youth and social media
Karnataka’s decision aligns with broader global discussions about regulating social media use by children. Several governments and regulators around the world have begun examining age limits and digital safety rules.
The debate centres on balancing technological access with protections for young users. Governments must weigh the benefits of digital connectivity against risks related to privacy, mental health and online safety.
By introducing the ban, Karnataka aims to position itself at the forefront of child digital safety policies in India. The government has not yet provided detailed information about how the rule will be enforced or which platforms will fall under the restriction.
However, the announcement signals a significant shift in how authorities may regulate social media access for younger users in the country.
With inputs from Reuters