Children’s Online Safety Case Heads to December Hearing After SC Notice

In a significant development, the Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Union Government concerning a petition that demands a ban on social media usage by children. The petition, filed by Emerald Heights International School, stresses that protecting minors from digital threats is a constitutional obligation of both state and central governments.

The petitioners argue that unregulated social media access is contributing to a rise in mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and low self‑esteem among youngsters. They also raise concerns about platform designs that aim to maximize user time, often leaving parents and educators unaware of the risks until serious harm occurs.

Recent reports suggest that approximately 37 % of children face depression, anxiety, or cyber‑bullying, with the risk of these issues doubling for children aged 12‑13 who spend extensive time on social media. The court has set the next hearing for December 3 to review the government’s response.