The government of Karnataka has recently released a draft policy aimed at controlling the digital activities of children under 16. This move comes after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah suggested banning social media and mobile phone use for minors.
The policy, titled ‘Responsible Digital Use,’ was developed by the Karnataka State Mental Health Authority, NIMHANS, and the School Education Department. It seeks to promote digital well-being, emotional balance, and awareness about screen time among students in schools.
According to the draft, children will need their Aadhaar card to access digital devices. Parents and schools will monitor usage, with limits set on how long minors can spend online each day. The policy also includes measures to educate both students and parents about the risks of excessive screen time and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance in their digital lives.
Experts have criticized this approach, calling it a ‘serious mistake.’ They argue that such strict controls could lead to negative reactions from children and might not effectively address the underlying issues related to internet use. Some fear it could also infringe on privacy rights and limit access to educational resources available online.
The government claims the policy is designed to protect young minds from potential harms associated with excessive screen time, such as addiction and mental health issues. However, critics suggest that a more balanced approach, focusing on education rather than restriction, would be more effective in promoting responsible digital use among children.