Parental Consent Mandatory for Minors in Draft Digital Rules
The Indian government has proposed new digital personal data protection rules requiring minors to obtain parental consent before joining social media and online gaming platforms. This proposal, under the draft Digital Personal Protection Rules, aims to enhance online safety for children and ensure responsible digital usage.
Key Highlights of the Proposal
The rules mandate that children under 18 years of age will need explicit parental approval to access platforms such as social media, online gaming, and other digital services. The proposal also emphasizes platforms’ responsibilities to implement stricter measures to verify user age and consent.
“Platforms must take active measures to verify the age of users and ensure that children below 18 years have obtained parental consent before joining,” the draft states.
These rules are part of broader efforts to protect children from online risks, including exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and data misuse.
Implications for Social Media and Gaming Platforms
If implemented, these rules could significantly impact how digital platforms operate in India. Companies may need to redesign their user onboarding processes, implement robust verification systems, and allocate additional resources to comply with the proposed regulations.
Concerns have been raised by industry stakeholders regarding the practicality of enforcing such measures. Critics argue that implementing age and consent verification could present operational challenges and privacy concerns.
Expert and Public Reactions
Child rights advocates have welcomed the proposal, stating that it prioritizes children’s safety in the digital age. However, some experts highlight the importance of striking a balance between protection and accessibility to ensure these measures do not exclude children from educational and skill-enhancing opportunities online.
As the draft rules await public consultation and further refinement, the move underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the complexities of the digital ecosystem while safeguarding the interests of its youngest users.
