As Global Debate on Online Safety Grows

NEW DELHI, Jan 31 (Reuters) — A political ally of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed restricting social media access for children and teenagers. With this move, India has joined a growing global debate on how online platforms affect young people’s mental health and safety.

Rising Concerns Over Social Media Addiction

Lawmaker L.S.K. Devarayalu told Reuters on Friday that social media addiction among Indian children is increasing rapidly. He also said India has become one of the world’s largest sources of data for foreign digital platforms.

“Foreign companies use Indian user data to develop advanced artificial intelligence systems,” Devarayalu said. “Indian users provide this data without compensation, while economic and strategic benefits flow abroad.”

Global Push for Age Restrictions

The proposal comes as several countries introduce similar measures. Australia recently became the first country to ban social media for children under 16. Many parents and child welfare groups welcomed the decision. However, technology companies and free-speech advocates criticised the move.

France’s National Assembly has approved legislation banning social media for children under 15. Britain, Denmark and Greece are also reviewing policies related to age-based access.

Tech Companies and Government Response

Meta, which operates Facebook, Alphabet-owned YouTube, and X did not respond to requests for comment on the Indian proposal by Saturday. Meta has said it supports laws that strengthen parental oversight. At the same time, it warned that a complete ban could push teenagers toward unsafe and unregulated platforms.

India’s IT ministry declined to comment on the proposal.

India’s Digital Landscape

India is the world’s second-largest smartphone market. The country has about 750 million mobile devices and nearly one billion internet users. Social media platforms see India as a key growth market. Currently, India does not set a minimum age requirement for social media access.

Details of the Proposed Bill

Devarayalu has introduced a 15-page Social Media (Age Restrictions and Online Safety) Bill, reviewed by Reuters but not made public. The bill states that no one under the age of 16 may create or operate a social media account. Authorities would deactivate accounts that violate the rule.

“We want social media platforms to take full responsibility for verifying users’ ages,” Devarayalu said.

Political Context and Next Steps

The issue gained more attention this week after India’s chief economic adviser called for age-based access policies. He linked the need for such rules to rising “digital addiction.”

Devarayalu introduced the proposal as a private member’s bill, not through a federal minister. While such bills do not always become law, they often spark debate and shape future legislation.

Devarayalu belongs to the Telugu Desam Party, which governs Andhra Pradesh. The party plays a key role in supporting Modi’s coalition government.