India's Anbumani Ramadoss urges nationwide ban on social media for under‑16s

PMK chief Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss has asked the Indian central government to enact a nationwide law prohibiting children under 16 from using social‑media platforms. He argued that the ban would protect children’s physical health, mental well‑being and academic performance. Ramadoss cited France’s recent legislation that bars under‑15s from creating accounts, noting that Australia, Canada, Brazil and Indonesia have introduced similar restrictions and that more than 50 countries are considering such measures.

He referenced India’s 2025‑26 Economic Survey, which highlighted rising anxiety, stress, low self‑esteem and cyber‑bullying among youth who spend extensive time online. According to the survey, the 16‑24 age group faces the greatest risk. Educators and university administrators have also warned that excessive social‑media use reduces attention spans and hampers study outcomes, reinforcing his call for a legal ban.