Bengaluru, Jan 30 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has announced that it is exploring options to limit children's access to social media due to the associated risks. Priyank Kharge, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR), IT and BT, made this announcement in the Legislative Assembly after a senior BJP MLA, S. Suresh Kumar, expressed concerns and urged for protective measures for children.

In response, Minister Kharge remarked, “The concern raised by the senior leader is quite serious. Countries like Finland have implemented measures, the UK is contemplating similar actions, and Australia recently decided to prohibit social media access for children. We are currently deliberating on how to promote responsible use of Artificial Intelligence and social media. This matter is actively under discussion.”

He further mentioned that the department, in partnership with Meta, has initiated a digital detox program that has engaged approximately three lakh children and around one lakh teachers. “This is a crucial issue, and I wish to convey what the government is currently undertaking,” he stated.

Earlier in the assembly, Suresh Kumar emphasized that Australia has set a benchmark by limiting social media access for those under 16. “Children are encountering inappropriate content before reaching adulthood. This issue is alarming. We need to implement protective measures. Otherwise, the future of our schools and families appears grim. A report on this concern has also been submitted to the central authorities,” he stated.

“We are jeopardizing our youth due to early exposure to social media. The state of Goa has also initiated certain actions. While complete control may be unattainable, we must at least take some steps,” he urged.

Suresh Kumar further insisted that such decisions should transcend party politics. “Regrettably, due to ongoing disputes between political factions, critical issues affecting the public—such as health and education—are often overlooked. A common man passing by Vidhana Soudha might wonder if their concerns will ever be addressed,” he said.

“It raises an important question about whether the common citizen is represented in these discussions. The government uses the Governor to address the assembly as ‘my government.’ Genuine governance will earn the trust of the citizens, who will then rightfully say it’s ‘my government.’ Until then, the system remains devoid of meaning,” he expressed.

Alluding to the recent tragic stampede in Bengaluru that resulted in 11 fatalities, Suresh Kumar queried about the status of the commission set up following discussions in the assembly. “What have been the findings? Who has been held accountable?” he asked.