REGULATORY · COMPETITIVE · INDIA
Karnataka bans under-16 social media access
Change
Karnataka’s 2026–27 state budget announced a ban on social media use for children under 16.
Why it matters
The ban was announced in the Legislative Assembly during presentation of the 2026–27 state budget. The budget states that access for under-16s will be prohibited. The excerpt does not specify which services are covered or how age will be verified. Detailed guidelines on implementation and enforcement are to be issued in forthcoming policy documents.
Implications
- • Under-16 users are barred from accessing social media in Karnataka.
- • Platforms and other operators will face compliance requirements once enforcement guidelines are issued.
Who is affected
- • Children under 16
- • Parents and guardians
- • Social media platforms
- • Schools and educators
Source
Topics
World & Politics Policy & Regulation Law & Public Safety Data Privacy Technology & Innovation Social Media