India government denies reports of social media curbs for minors

The Indian government has denied reports claiming it plans to impose restrictions on social media access for individuals under the age of 18, labeling such claims as “fake” and without basis. The clarification from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology follows discussions in the Supreme Court regarding the digital safety of minors.

During a hearing involving a plea from the NGO Just Rights for Children Alliance, the Supreme Court expressed concerns over how social media platforms manage underage users. The bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, discussed the legal validity of contracts entered into by minors with digital intermediaries. Justice Bagchi noted that platforms often apply US-based restrictions to the Indian digital space, which may not align with Indian law.

While Solicitor General Tushar Mehta indicated a need to control intermediaries, the government maintains that no formal proposal to amend the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules to prevent minors from opening accounts is currently under consideration.