Karnataka proposes under-16 social media ban; Andhra plans curb for under-13s

Karnataka on Friday announced banning social media access for children below the age of 16, becoming the first state to announce such a move and triggering a wider debate on whether state governments can effectively regulate minors’ online activity. Within hours, Andhra Pradesh said it would introduce restrictions on social media use by children under 13, signalling that the issue may quickly gather momentum across states.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the proposal while presenting the state Budget for 2026-27, saying the restriction was intended to prevent the adverse effects of rising mobile phone use among children. The government, however, said the framework for implementation and enforcement is still being worked out.