- AP government studies social media ban to protect children
- IT Minister Nara Lokesh cites Australian under 16 law at Davos
The AP social media ban plan for children under 16 has emerged as a key policy move under study by the Andhra Pradesh government. The state is examining steps to address growing concerns over children becoming addicted to social media and facing risks such as cyberbullying. According to the information shared, the government is considering a possible ban on social media access for those below the age of 16. The stated aim is to protect the mental health and safety of children. Therefore, the proposal has drawn wide attention.
IT Minister Nara Lokesh revealed this development while participating in the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He spoke to a media channel about the state’s approach. Referring to international examples, he said, “As a state, we are deeply studying the ‘Under-16’ law recently brought by the Australian government. At a young age, children do not have the maturity to analyze the content that comes on social media. That is why we believe that a strong legal provision needs to be brought.” His remarks highlighted the government’s concern over children’s exposure to harmful online content.
Australian under 16 law shapes AP social media ban thinking
The Australian government implemented a historic law from December 10, 2025. Under this law, children under the age of 16 are prohibited from using platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X formerly Twitter, and Snapchat. The responsibility to prevent children from opening social media accounts rests entirely with the social media companies. Australia also enacted provisions to impose fines of thousands of crores of rupees on tech giants if they violate these rules. Therefore, the Australian model has become central to the AP government’s review.
Officials believe the Australian experience offers a clear legal framework. However, they also note that applying a similar law in Andhra Pradesh may not be simple. Although many see the idea as beneficial for the future of children, legal and technical challenges remain. Meanwhile, the central government has not taken any decision on this issue at the national level. This limits the scope of immediate action by individual states.
Legal challenges and expert committee under AP government plan
The issue has gained further importance after the Madras High Court recently suggested introducing an Australian style law in India. Against this background, the AP government’s move has become significant. The state believes children can be protected from online dangers not only through regulation but also through education. Therefore, it has stressed the need to increase digital literacy within the education system and to educate parents.
Later, the IT department is planning to constitute an expert committee. This committee will study the feasibility of implementing such a law in Andhra Pradesh. It will also prepare a detailed report on legal and technical aspects. Full details are awaited as the government continues its review process.
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