TDP Calls for Legal Framework to Regulate Social Media Access for Teenagers
In a significant move, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), an ally of the NDA, has formally requested the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to develop a legal framework aimed at protecting children online by limiting their social media use. This appeal comes amid growing concerns over the safety and well-being of young people in the digital age.
Letter to I&B Minister Highlights Urgent Need for Action
TDP floor leader in the Lok Sabha, Lavu Krishna Devarayalu, submitted a detailed letter to I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, proposing the introduction of a Social Media (Age Restrictions and Online Safety) Bill. The bill advocates for several key measures, including a minimum age threshold for social media access, mandatory age verification mechanisms, and the permanent deletion of children's personal data collected during verification processes. It also calls for strong enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance to ensure effectiveness.
Citing Distressing Cases and Alarming Statistics
The letter references recent incidents of distress among children in cities like Ghaziabad and Lucknow, which have been directly linked to social media usage. These cases underscore the urgent need for regulatory intervention to shield young individuals from overindulgence and potential harm online. According to the TDP's communication, 90% of children aged 14 to 16 in India own smartphones, and over 75% are active social media users. Furthermore, studies indicate that approximately 60% of children are exposed to age-inappropriate content, harmful material, or bullying on these platforms, highlighting a critical public health and safety issue.
Global Precedents and Parental Control Limitations
Devarayalu's letter draws attention to international efforts to address similar challenges. Countries such as Australia have already enacted bans on social media access for children under 16, while nations like Denmark, Malaysia, Norway, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand are actively considering or advancing comparable age-based restrictions as part of broader online safety frameworks. The TDP argues that this reflects an emerging global consensus that parental controls alone are insufficient, and that responsibility must be squarely placed on social media platforms to ensure user safety.
Proposal for Expert Committee and National Policy
In addition to legislative action, the TDP leader has urged the ministry to consider establishing a dedicated committee or expert group. This body would be tasked with studying age-based regulation of social media and recommending a comprehensive national policy to govern online interactions for minors. The NDA government in Andhra Pradesh, led by the TDP, is actively examining the issue at the state level, demonstrating a commitment to addressing this concern from multiple angles.
TDP's Commitment to Child Safety at All Levels
The letter concludes by affirming the TDP's unwavering support for such regulations at both the state and national levels. The party emphasizes that there is an overwhelming concern regarding children's safety on social media platforms, and it pledges to advocate for robust measures to mitigate risks. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to foster a safer digital environment for India's youth, balancing technological advancement with protective safeguards.
