Andhra Pradesh Forms Committee to Examine Social Media Restrictions for Minors Under 16

Andhra Pradesh Government Forms Committee to Study Social Media Restrictions for Children Under 16

The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a significant step by forming a dedicated committee to examine the feasibility and implementation of social media restrictions for children under the age of 16. This move comes in response to growing concerns about the impact of social media on young minds and follows similar international initiatives aimed at protecting minors online.

Inspired by Global Precedents: Australia's Legislative Action

The decision to establish this panel is notably influenced by recent legislative developments in Australia, where the government has introduced a bill to set an age limit of 16 years for children to begin using social media platforms. This Australian legislation, which has garnered attention worldwide, aims to address issues such as cyberbullying, online predators, and mental health challenges associated with early social media exposure.

By studying Australia's approach, the Andhra Pradesh committee will analyze how such age-based restrictions could be adapted to the Indian context, considering local social, cultural, and technological factors. The panel is expected to review existing laws, consult with experts, and gather data on the effects of social media usage among children in the state.

Objectives and Scope of the Committee

The newly formed committee in Andhra Pradesh has been tasked with several key objectives to ensure a comprehensive study of social media curbs for minors. These include:

• Assessing Risks: Evaluating the potential risks and harms that social media poses to children under 16, including psychological impacts and safety concerns.
• Reviewing International Models: Examining successful social media restriction policies from countries like Australia to identify best practices.
• Developing Recommendations: Formulating actionable recommendations for potential age-based restrictions or alternative measures to safeguard children online.
• Stakeholder Consultation: Engaging with parents, educators, technology experts, and child welfare organizations to gather diverse perspectives.

The committee's work is seen as a proactive measure to address the digital well-being of young users, aligning with broader efforts to promote responsible internet usage in India. As social media continues to evolve, such initiatives highlight the need for balanced policies that protect children while fostering digital literacy and innovation.