India has not introduced a nationwide ban on social media accounts for everyone under 18. The issue is under consideration after the Supreme Court asked the Centre to address how minors sign up for platforms and agree to their terms of service. Reports on the government’s response suggest changes to the Information Technology Rules may follow, but the final wording and scope of any new rule have not been announced.

The court raised the issue during a hearing on a petition by the Just Rights for Children Alliance. The group argues that children can create accounts on some platforms from the age of 13 even though minors cannot independently enter into binding contracts under Indian law. It has sought safeguards, including parental or guardian consent before children sign up.

The Centre told the court it would examine the matter. Some reports describe a possible bar on under-18s independently opening social media accounts, while reporting on the hearing also discusses parental consent. That distinction is crucial: a rule requiring a parent’s approval would work differently from a complete ban on access for all children below 18. Neither outcome should be presented as an existing nationwide rule.

What could change for minors and platforms?

Any new framework would need to spell out which services it covers, whether parental consent permits an account, how a user’s age would be checked and what platforms must do to comply. Those details have not been settled in the material reported from the hearing.

The petition cites risks such as grooming, cyberbullying, misuse of children’s personal data and exposure to unsuitable content. The Supreme Court asked the government to consider directions under the IT Rules so that platforms’ systems conform to Indian law. The matter is expected to return to court after the Centre has had time to consider its response.

Australia’s rule has a different age limit

The original report says Australia restricts social media for children under 18. Australia’s rule actually applies to under-16s: covered platforms must take reasonable steps to prevent users below that age from creating or keeping accounts. It has been in effect since December 10, 2025.

For Indian families and social media companies, the immediate position remains unchanged. The court has pressed for stronger safeguards, and the Centre is considering how to respond. A clear answer on the age threshold, parental consent and enforcement will depend on the text of any proposed rule or further court order.