Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday (March 6) proposed a ban on social media usage for children under the age of 16 amid concerns of social media addiction among teen students. If accepted, Karnataka will become one of the first Indian states to impose such a ban. The chief minister proposed it while presenting the state budget for the fiscal year 2026-2027.
“To prevent adverse effects of increasing mobile usage on children, usage of social media will be banned for children under the age of 16,” Siddaramaiah said while presenting his 17th state budget.
The Karnataka chief minister added that the ban is aimed at preventing the negative impact of social media on children.
“Social media will be banned for children under the age of 16 to prevent the adverse effects of increasing mobile usage. The ban is aimed at preventing the negative impact on children caused by increasing mobile phone usage,” he stressed.
Siddaramaiah proposed a total outlay of Rs 4,48,004 crore for Karnataka’s growth and development.
Karnataka To Come in Line With Australia
Moreover, during the last Assembly session, Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge also hinted that the state government is mulling a ban on social media for children under the age of 16.
Kharge cited Australia’s move to restrict social media access for those under 16, adding that the Centre’s Economic Survey has also proposed fixing a minimum age for using such platforms.
Earlier, Siddaramaiah also said that if implemented, the move could bring Karnataka in line with countries like Australia that have already imposed similar restrictions on phone usage among school students.
“Also, in line with various other countries like Australia, there is a thought to ban mobile phones among students,” he added.
Siddaramaiah Seeks Advice From University Heads
Moreover, he also sought the opinion of the university heads on restricting mobile phones on campuses for minors. While many of the VCs agreed with the proposal, some pointed out that several private schools, especially elite institutions, assign homework through mobile phones.
“I want your opinion on this. We are looking at this for children below the age of 16, not adults. Many of them are falling prey and are addicted to social media,” he added.
