Govt Should Consider Setting Age Limit for Using Social Media: HC

While hearing a writ appeal filed by X Corp concerning certain blocking orders, the Karnataka High Court remarked that the Central Government should consider setting an age limit for the use of social media.[1]

Pointing out that school-going children are addicted to social media, Justice G Narendar opined that an age limit should be put in place, “as in the Excise rules”. He further stated, “When a user registers, he will have to give some material, just like in online gaming where a person not having Aadhar etc. cannot join. Why don’t you extend it here also? It will be a boon”.

Earlier, X Corp had approached the Single Judge Bench of the Karnataka High Court, challenging the blocking orders issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The blocking orders were issued between February 2, 2021, and February 28, 2022. Dismissing the plea, the Court imposed a cost of Rs. 50 Lakh. On appeal, the order passed by the Single Judge Bench was stayed, and X Corp was directed to deposit Rs. 25 Lakh.

When the interlocutory applications were taken up for consideration yesterday, X Corp requested that the blocking orders be reconsidered by the Central Government. In this regard, the Court has sought the Centre’s response.

The matter will be heard next on September 27, 2023.

[1] X Corp. v. Union of India & Ors. (WA 895/2023)