The Karnataka government is exploring the possibility of restricting mobile phone use among students below the age of 16, citing rising concerns over social media addiction and its impact on children’s mental health, behaviour, and academic performance. The proposal is currently under discussion, with the state seeking feedback from academic institutions before taking a final decision.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah raised the issue during a meeting with vice chancellors of state-run universities, requesting their views on whether access to mobile phones by minors on campuses should be limited. He said growing dependence on smartphones and social media was affecting young people’s development and increasing their exposure to harmful influences, including substance abuse. Referring to international debates on digital regulation, he noted that some countries, including Australia, have considered or implemented restrictions on student phone usage, and said Karnataka was examining similar measures.
The chief minister emphasised that excessive engagement with social media platforms is influencing students’ behaviour and learning outcomes while also raising mental health concerns. The consultation process, he said, is intended to gather expert opinions before framing any policy aimed at safeguarding children from digital overexposure.
Separately, Karnataka’s Electronics and IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge informed the state Assembly that the government is also consulting stakeholders on broader measures to promote responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media, particularly among children and adolescents. The discussions include examining regulatory and awareness-based approaches to reduce harmful online exposure.
Karnataka’s deliberations come amid similar policy discussions in other states. The Goa government is reportedly reviewing a proposal to restrict access to social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and X for users under 16 years of age. In Andhra Pradesh, Education Minister Nara Lokesh has indicated that the state is considering tighter controls on minors’ social media usage due to concerns about online harassment, declining attention spans, and the impact of excessive screen time on academic performance.
The Andhra Pradesh government has initiated a study to examine legal frameworks that could enable age-appropriate access to digital platforms. It has also invited major technology companies, including Meta, X Corp., Google, and ShareChat, to participate in a Group of Ministers meeting aimed at studying global best practices and developing safeguards to make online spaces safer for women and children.
The emerging discussions across multiple states reflect a growing policy focus on balancing digital access with child safety, as governments assess how to address rising concerns about social media dependency, online abuse, and the broader effects of technology on younger users.
