Karnataka government is reportedly considering options for a proposal to restrict the use of mobile phones for children below the age of 16 years due to concerns about increasing social media addiction and its impact on students.
According to a report by NDTV, the matter was raised by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during a meeting with vice- chancellors of government universities, where he sought their views on the possible implementation of such a measure.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the government is discussing whether mobile phone usage among minors should be regulated.
Quoting the Chief Minister, NDTV reported he had asked the vice-chancellors to share their opinions on the issue. “Children are falling prey to drugs.Also, in line with Australia and some European countries, there is a thought to ban mobile phones among students. I want your opinion on this. We are looking at this for children below 16 years, not adults. Many of them are falling prey to social media addiction,” he said.
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What does the restriction mean?
The proposal under consideration focuses on limiting or banning mobile phone use for students under 16 years of age. The government has indicated that the restriction would not apply to adults or students above 16.
At present, discussions are centred on how such a move could be practically implemented across educational institutions in the state.
Officials stated that formal opinions have been sought from vice-chancellors to study the feasibility of enforcing the restriction.
The government is examining various aspects, including how to monitor compliance, what enforcement mechanisms could be introduced, and whether exceptions should be made for academic purposes.
Why is the government considering this step?
The move comes amid growing concerns about excessive screen time among teenagers.
Authorities believe that unrestricted access to smartphones has affected academic concentration among students and contributed to behavioural changes and mental health issues.
There are also concerns that exposure to social media platforms may make children vulnerable to harmful online content and, in some instances, connect them to substance abuse networks.
The Chief Minister also referred to cases where children are “falling prey to drugs” and linked this to wider concerns about digital exposure and online influence.
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Who will be covered under the restriction?
If the proposal is implemented, it would apply specifically to minors below 16 years of age.
The restriction would not extend to adults or students above that age limit. The government has clarified that the idea is targeted at children and not at the general public.
Has this been done elsewhere?
During the discussion, the Chief Minister mentioned that similar measures have been introduced in countries such as Australia and in some European nations to address digital addiction among school students.
Karnataka could join such regions if the proposal is approved after consultations.
What will happen next ?
The state government is expected to take a final decision after receiving feedback from vice-chancellors and holding further consultations with academic leaders and other stakeholders.
The proposal is currently under review, and no official order has been issued so far.
It is worth noting that last month the Andhra Pradesh government also indicated it is considering strict regulations to limit children's access to social media platforms.
The Andhra Pradesh government has constituted a Group of Ministers headed by IT minister Nara Lokesh to examine existing laws governing social media and recommend possible changes.
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