BS EDIT: Regulating Social Media

By Business StandardPublished On Feb 26, 2026

Regulating Social Media

India is debating age limits as digital addiction gains recognition as a public-health risk

Why the Concern

Cyberbullying, self-harm content and addictive design have raised pressure for tougher oversight

Australia’s Example

Australia bans under-16 access, placing liability on platforms and mandating age checks

The Enforcement Gap

VPNs, fake profiles and privacy risks expose the limits of blanket bans

Hidden Costs

Strict verification may expand surveillance and cut off valuable online communities for teens

A Better Approach

Safer platform design and digital literacy may work better than outright prohibition