Mumbai’s spotlight turned to actor Kunal Kapoor as he voiced strong support for restricting children’s access to social media. In a nation grappling with the digital age’s pitfalls, Kapoor highlighted how addictive algorithms prey on young minds, derailing focus, sleep, and emotional well-being.
The actor shared a news report on X about the Indian government’s consideration of a ban on social media for those under 16. ‘This is exactly what our country needs,’ he posted. ‘It’s not anti-tech; it’s pro-future for our kids. We must shield them from algorithms designed to hook them endlessly.’
Kapoor’s stance aligns with growing global concerns. Australia’s recent blanket ban on social media for minors has inspired similar moves worldwide, earning praise from Indian celebrities like Sonakshi Sinha, Sonu Sood, and Shilpa Shetty.
Under the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, amendments are being explored to enforce age restrictions. With India’s 1.4 billion population, protecting the youngest from unchecked online exposure could reshape digital policies.
Kapoor emphasized opportunity in restriction: ‘This gives us a chance to build homegrown platforms focused on growth, not just engagement.’ His words resonate amid rising alarms over AI-driven content exacerbating mental health issues among youth.
As debates heat up, Kapoor’s endorsement underscores a parental and societal call to prioritize child development over corporate profits. Will India follow Australia’s lead? The coming weeks may reveal more.