New Delhi, Sep 29: The Centre is set to examine whether existing rules governing social media intermediaries can be strengthened to prevent children below 18 from independently creating accounts and entering into contracts with digital platforms, following directions from the Supreme Court.
The issue came up before a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, which is hearing a plea seeking stronger safeguards for minors using social media and other digital platforms.
The petition has raised concerns over children’s exposure to risks including online grooming, sexual exploitation, trafficking, cyberbullying and age-inappropriate content.
During the hearing on Monday, the Supreme Court asked the Centre to consider whether stronger safeguards for minors could be incorporated into the statutory framework governing intermediaries rather than being limited to voluntary guidelines, reported News 18.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, indicated that the government would examine the issue.
“Something can be done, something should be done and will be done. We have to come back,” Mehta told the bench.
Justice V Mohana Bagchi stressed that digital platforms must ensure that their systems comply with Indian law.
“Please pass directions under the intermediary rules that they fashion their software, or whatever the platform is called, in conformity with Indian law,” the judge told the solicitor general, adding that the software should conform to Indian law.
The court’s observations come amid growing concerns over the ability of children to access social media platforms and the risks associated with unrestricted online activity.
The Centre is now expected to examine possible changes to the existing regulatory framework and whether additional safeguards can be introduced for users below 18.
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