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Supreme Court Declines PIL Seeking Social Media Ban for Children Below 13

Supreme Court’s Verdict Sparks Debate on Digital Safety

In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court of India has declined to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought a complete ban on social media access for children under 13 years of age. The case—Zep Foundation v. Union of India—was reviewed by a bench led by Justice BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih, who ruled that such policy matters lie within the jurisdiction of the government rather than the judiciary.

Concerns Over Social Media & Children's Mental Health

The PIL, filed by Zep Foundation, argued that unrestricted access to digital platforms exposes minors to mental health risks, including addiction, unrealistic comparisons, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content. Citing Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, the petition emphasized the need for government intervention to ensure a safe online environment for young users.

A study by Social Media Matters revealed alarming statistics—many children spend more than five hours daily on social platforms, leading to behavioral changes resembling addiction.

Petitioner’s Demands for Stricter Regulations

The plea urged authorities to adopt strict child protection measures, including:

  • Age restrictions: A complete ban on social media for children under 13 years due to developmental concerns.
  • Parental controls: Mandatory content filters and activity monitoring for teens aged 13-18.
  • Real-time monitoring tools: Advanced age verification systems, including biometric authentication, to prevent underage access.
  • Enforcement of digital literacy campaigns to educate parents, teachers, and students on responsible online behavior.

Government’s Role in Child Online Safety

While the Supreme Court acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised, it ruled that such regulatory changes must be initiated by the government. The Central Government now holds the responsibility of evaluating the petition’s recommendations and deciding whether stricter regulations on children’s digital engagement are necessary.

Future Implications & Need for Digital Policies

Although the PIL was dismissed, the ruling has reignited discussions around social media addiction among minors. The debate highlights the urgent need for child-friendly digital policies, balancing free internet access with mental health protection. Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to build a safer digital ecosystem for young users.

With rising concerns over screen time dependency, future government regulations could shape India’s digital safety framework for children.

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