State tech minister Nara Lokesh says a “strong legal framework” is in the works to shield minors from harmful content; TDP doubles down on online child safety.
Andhra Eyes Age-Gated Internet as Child Safety Debate Intensifies
In a move that could redefine digital access for Indian minors, the Andhra Pradesh government is exploring a ban on social media usage for children under 16, following Australia’s controversial example.
State technology minister Nara Lokesh, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, confirmed that the government is studying Australia’s policy to craft a robust legal framework limiting social media access for minors.
“Children below a certain age should not be on these platforms… they do not fully understand the content they are exposed to,” Lokesh said.
While the proposal is in the early stages, it signals a potential policy shift toward digital-age child protection—albeit in an area traditionally regulated by the Union government.
Political Backing from the Ruling TDP
Backing Lokesh’s stance, TDP spokesperson Deepak Reddy reiterated the party’s view that such a ban is necessary to protect women and children from online harm.
- He emphasized the emotional immaturity of children to process toxic or misleading content.
- Reddy added the state would work “in collaboration with the Centre” to determine constitutional viability.
“The Andhra Pradesh government is studying global best practices… including Australia’s under-16 law,” he told The Hindu BusinessLine.
What Did Australia Do?
In 2025, Australia banned children under 16 from accessing major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), and Snapchat.
- All existing underage profiles were deactivated.
- Platforms were instructed to enforce stricter age-verification systems.
- The rationale? To reduce screen time addiction and limit exposure to algorithm-driven harmful content.
Australia’s government argued that platforms’ design encourages compulsive usage and can harm mental health, a concern that echoes globally.
Legal, Technical, and Policy Hurdles in India
The Centre currently has no proposal to ban social media for minors, but has tightened platform regulation in recent years:
- The IT Rules, 2021 compel digital platforms to take down harmful content or lose legal immunity.
- In 2023, new amendments targeted AI-generated deepfakes, hinting at rising urgency around digital safety.
However, social media regulation is largely a Union subject, and any state-level restriction would need either Centre approval or a collaborative framework. The technical enforcement—age verification, identity proof, platform compliance—also remains a major challenge.
Can a state really ban social media for minors without national alignment? That’s the legal and logistical tightrope Andhra will need to walk.
TL;DR:
Andhra Pradesh is exploring a ban on social media for users under 16, inspired by Australia’s 2025 regulation. State minister Nara Lokesh says a strong legal framework is needed to protect minors, while TDP confirms coordination with the Centre is underway.
AI summary:
- Andhra Pradesh may ban social media for under-16s
- Inspired by Australia’s 2025 model that barred minors from major platforms
- Minister Nara Lokesh says a legal framework is in development
- TDP says move is vital for protecting women and children
- Enforcement would require coordination with the central government
