NATIONAL: Under-16 Social Media Ban: Madurai Bench Remarks
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has called on the central government to explore laws restricting social media access for children under 16.
This idea draws from Australia’s recent nationwide ban, aimed at shielding young users from online risks.
Judges highlighted growing worries over minors’ exposure to unsuitable material.
Roots in Long-Standing Petition
A public interest litigation filed back in 2018 by Madurai resident S. Vijayakumar sparked the discussion.
He pointed out how easily children encounter pornographic content online.
The plea asked authorities to mandate parental control features from internet providers and boost public education efforts.
Bench Highlights Key Concerns
Justices G. Jayachandran and K. K. Ramakrishnan noted that current awareness programs fall short in reach and impact.
They stressed parents’ primary role in oversight while acknowledging tech’s role in vulnerability.
The court urged child rights bodies at national and state levels to step up coordinated campaigns.
Nod to Australian Approach
During hearings, petitioner’s counsel referenced Australia’s new rule barring under-16s from platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
The bench agreed this model merits serious consideration for India. Until any new law emerges, intensified outreach remains essential to inform families.
Interim Steps Emphasized
The judges directed relevant commissions to craft detailed plans for spreading awareness via schools, media, and communities.
They expressed hope these bodies would act swiftly and meaningfully. Existing rules for blocking harmful sites were noted, but stronger user-end controls got priority.
Broader Implications for Protection
This observation adds momentum to debates on balancing digital freedom with child safety in India.
It underscores the need for proactive measures against harmful content. Observers watch to see if the suggestion influences future policy decisions.