Sridhar Vembu Backs Social Media Ban for Kids
Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu has called for India to consider banning social media access for young children, arguing that they should spend more time reading, playing outdoors and forming real-world friendships.
Sridhar Vembu Proposes Social Media Ban
Vembu made the suggestion while responding to France’s decision to restrict social media access for children below 15 years of age. He said India should introduce a similar prohibition to protect younger users.
The technology entrepreneur said children should read physical books, play outdoors and interact directly with other children instead of spending significant amounts of time on social media platforms.
Vembu did not present a detailed regulatory framework or specify the precise age limit that India should adopt. His remarks represented a policy suggestion rather than an official government proposal.
Child Social Media Rules Debated
The comments generated debate over how age restrictions could be enforced and whether messaging platforms, educational websites and online communities should be covered by any proposed law.
Supporters of restrictions argue that excessive social media use can expose children to addictive design features, cyberbullying, harmful content and privacy risks. Questions remain over reliable age verification, parental consent and the collection of identity information from minors.
India currently has no uniform nationwide ban preventing children below a specified age from accessing social media.
Global Restrictions on Young Users
France has approved restrictions covering social media users below 15, while Australia has adopted a ban for children under 16. Other countries are considering age-verification requirements and limits on how minors interact with online platforms.
India’s Economic Survey previously recommended examining age-based social media restrictions, stronger platform accountability and safer default settings for children. Some state governments have also explored rules governing minors’ access.
Any nationwide restriction would require legislation, enforceable age checks and clear responsibilities for technology companies, parents and regulators.
