AP May Bar Social Media for Under-16s

With concerns mounting over children being exposed to harmful and inappropriate content online, the Andhra Pradesh government is considering an Australia-style restriction on social media access for minors below 16 years, IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh has said.

Mr. Lokesh said children should not be introduced to social media platforms at an early age, as many lack the maturity to understand and properly contextualise the content they consume. He added that the State government is studying global models and international best practices to strengthen online safety safeguards for minors.

Referring to growing global concern over teenagers encountering violent and unsuitable digital material, the Minister said social media may carry educational and useful content, but also comes with serious risks. He warned that harmful online networks often target minors, potentially leading to psychological trauma and influencing poor decision-making.

The Minister’s comments come amid heightened debate on emerging digital threats. Complaints have recently been raised against the AI bot Grok over alleged generation of sexualised images and inappropriate conversations, including those involving minors. Reports of non-consensual deepfakes have also triggered alarm over child online safety and the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Australia recently adopted a tough stance by moving to prohibit social media access for users under 16, placing restrictions on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram to protect minors from cyberbullying, harmful content and online exploitation. Critics, however, have flagged concerns over effective implementation and the possibility of social isolation.

Mr. Lokesh’s remarks have found support online, with many netizens welcoming stricter controls amid growing worries over the influence of social media on children and teenagers.