By IETeam In light of Australia’s recent legislation prohibiting social media access for individuals under 16, India has chosen a different path. S. Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), clarified that India does not intend to implement a similar blanket ban. Instead, the focus is on obtaining verifiable parental consent for minors engaging with social media platforms.
Context and Rationale
Australia’s decision to ban social media for children under 16 has sparked global discussions on the role of digital platforms in young people’s lives. In contrast, India’s approach considers the integral role of online platforms in education and social interaction. Krishnan emphasized that societal norms and the multifaceted use of the internet in India necessitate a tailored strategy. He stated, “In the Indian context, a lot of learning also takes place online. So, if you block complete access, is that a good way? That’s a broader social debate.”
Draft Rules Under the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Law
The Indian government has introduced draft rules under the DPDP law, emphasizing:
- Verifiable Parental Consent: Social media platforms must secure explicit consent from parents or guardians before allowing minors to create accounts.
- Enhanced Data Protection: The draft rules aim to bolster the privacy and security of minors’ data, ensuring that their online interactions are safeguarded against potential misuse.
These measures reflect a commitment to protecting children online without impeding their access to educational resources and social connectivity.
Expert Opinions
The debate over restricting social media access for minors has elicited diverse perspectives:
- Implementation Challenges: Experts argue that enforcing a complete ban would be challenging and could drive children towards unregulated platforms. Dr. Rajesh Sagar, Professor of Psychiatry at AIIMS-Delhi, noted, “Banning the use of social media among children is a welcome step but it will be difficult to implement a complete ban. There is a need for promotion of healthy use.”
- Educational Value: Many educators highlight the benefits of social media as a tool for learning and engagement. Sunil Fernandes, Principal of St Joseph’s Boys’ High School, stated, “Social media has both its positives and negatives. However, it’s not possible to monitor a kid’s social media activity every second.”
Global Perspectives
Internationally, approaches to minors’ social media usage vary:
- United States: Discussions are ongoing about implementing age restrictions and enhancing parental controls, but no federal ban exists.
- European Union: The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) sets the age of digital consent at 16, though member states can lower it to 13.
These varied strategies underscore the complexity of balancing child safety with digital engagement.
Future Considerations
As digital landscapes evolve, India’s policies may adapt to emerging challenges and technological advancements. The government’s current stance reflects a nuanced approach, aiming to protect minors while acknowledging the integral role of the internet in modern education and socialization.
In conclusion, India’s decision to require parental consent for minors’ social media access, rather than imposing a blanket ban, highlights a commitment to safeguarding children in the digital realm while respecting the educational and social benefits these platforms offer. Ongoing dialogue among policymakers, educators, parents, and technology companies will be essential to navigate this complex issue effectively.