The world of the internet and social media is proving to be as dangerous as it is helpful for children. Recognizing this grave threat, a crucial and stringent legal framework regarding children’s digital safety is being prepared in the country’s parliament. In the coming days, the government is set to take strict measures to rescue children from the traps of the virtual world, which will curb the arbitrary actions of tech companies and social media giants.

Social Media Bans Likely for Children Under 13

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Baijayant ‘Jay’ Panda has prepared a private member’s bill to protect children from the hazards of the internet. This special bill is titled the ‘Safeguarding Healthy Internet Environments for Little Digital-Natives’ (SHIELD) Bill, 2025. Although the bill could not be formally introduced due to recent disruptions and adjournment of parliamentary proceedings, its provisions have already created a stir in the tech industry. The new bill defines all individuals under the age of 18 as minors. Under this, children under the age of 13 will not be able to create new accounts on any social media or online gaming platform without the verified consent of a parent or guardian. Furthermore, the proposal seeks a complete ban on tracking children’s online activities and building profiles based on their behavior, known as behavioral tracking. Companies will no longer be able to use children’s data to display alluring and personalized advertisements.

Data Privacy and Robust Parental Dashboard Systems

Stringent provisions have been incorporated into the bill to safeguard children’s online privacy. Digital data related to children will be restricted solely to the provision of necessary services. As soon as an account is closed or becomes inactive, companies must erase all associated data from their systems within 90 days. Additionally, permanent deletion of children’s data upon parental request has been made mandatory. Every platform accessible to children will be required to adopt a robust age-verification system. For the convenience of parents, a dedicated ‘parental dashboard’ is proposed, allowing them to monitor and control privacy settings, online activities, and screen time. Moreover, social media platforms will carry the ethical responsibility of protecting children from dangerous content related to pornography, online betting, violent material, and drugs.

Heavy Penalties for Rule Violations and Potential Platform Blocks

Comprehensive preparations are underway to tighten the grip on negligent companies to ensure children’s safety. According to the new proposals, every social media platform must provide a ‘Report Child Harm’ option. Upon receiving any complaint, the platform must respond within 24 hours and resolve it within 48 hours. General harmful content must be removed within 36 hours, and Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) must be taken down within a mere 24 hours. If any company violates these rules, a hefty fine of up to 10 crore rupees may be imposed. In cases of serious or repeated violations, provisions have also been proposed to temporarily block the respective platform in India under Section 69A of the IT Act.

Strong Blow Against AI Deepfakes with Prison and Fine Provisions

Alongside child safety, MP Baijayant Jay Panda has drafted a separate bill to curb the growing threats of deepfakes driven by the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Under this proposed legislation, strict legal action will be taken against individuals who create and spread fake AI content using someone else’s voice, face, or identity without permission. The new regulations require such fake and misleading content to be removed within 24 hours of receiving a notice, while sexually explicit material must be taken down within just 12 hours. If any individual creates deepfakes for the purpose of fraud, blackmail, or obscenity, they could face up to 3 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to 10 lakh rupees.