Social media accountability urged in RS

At the recent AI impact summit, French President Emmanuel Macron urged India to consider limiting access for children under 15

Milind Murli Deora Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha member 

Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha member Milind Murli Deora on Tuesday urged the government to hold social media companies accountable, highlighting the rising impact of digital platforms on teenagers.

Speaking during Zero Hour, Deora pointed to the recent suicide of three teenage sisters in Ghaziabad, reportedly linked to online gaming addiction, as a warning of social media’s dark side.

“Social media connects billions and democratizes information, but it also carries serious risks,” he said. He noted that teenage depression and suicides began rising sharply around 2010, when platforms started targeting young users aggressively.

Citing studies, Deora said 27 per cent of Indian teens show signs of social media addiction, often experiencing poor grades, anxiety, and low self-esteem. He also highlighted a survey across Indian metros showing 33 per cent of children faced cyberbullying.

He referred to National Crime Records Bureau data showing violent juvenile offences rose from 32 per cent in 2016 to nearly 50 per cent in 2022. Deora added that countries such as France, Australia, and Indonesia have restricted social media use for teens, while Spain and Germany are considering similar steps.

“At the recent AI impact summit, French President Emmanuel Macron urged India to consider limiting access for children under 15,” he said.

Deora noted that India’s Digital Personal Data Protection framework already mandates parental consent for those under 18, but stressed that more accountability is needed from social media companies. He welcomed discussions in states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka on the issue.

He also emphasized integrating digital literacy and mental health education into schools. “We must monitor usage and communicate openly with our children. As a parent, I urge swift action to safeguard their future,” he said.

Deora’s remarks underline growing concerns in India over teenagers’ mental health and safety online, and the need for stronger regulation of social media platforms.