Indian state planning to ban social media for children; this country's model under study

PANAJI: The use of social media is one of the reasons why children today fall into various traps. Excessive use of social media is even affecting the mental health of children. Against the backdrop of growing concerns, Goa is preparing to ban social media for children. The move is expected to follow the model adopted by Australia.

"We are studying Australia's laws. We are examining how access to social media platforms by minors can be controlled through this," said Goa Infotech Minister Rohan Khaunte. Earlier, the Andhra Pradesh government had also considered steps to restrict the use of social media platforms by children below the age of 16.

However, the central government has not yet considered such a move at the national level. Therefore, states will need to bring in special legislation if they want to implement such restrictions. In Andhra Pradesh, a cabinet sub-committee has been formed to study global regulations and submit recommendations within a month. Australia implemented such restrictions last year.

Following the implementation of the rules in Australia, lakhs of social media accounts were shut down. Several countries around the world are closely observing Australia’s decision and the way the restrictions were enforced.