Karnataka wants to ban U-16s from social media; industry, experts sceptical

The Karnataka government is considering a ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, a move prompted by concerns regarding the impact of AI-generated deepfakes and other digital content on youth. This proposal follows a crackdown by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) on the misuse of AI technologies on social media platforms. The government aims to protect minors from potential online harms, including exposure to inappropriate content and cyberbullying. However, industry experts and stakeholders have expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of such a ban. Critics argue that restricting access may not address the root causes of online dangers and could hinder the digital literacy of young users. The debate highlights the broader challenges of regulating social media in an increasingly digital world, where technology rapidly evolves and its implications for youth well-being become a pressing concern. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how the government will balance the protection of minors with the rights to access information and communication in a digital age.