JD(U) MP raises concern over digital addiction among children in Rajya Sabha

JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha on Tuesday voiced serious concern in the Rajya Sabha over the growing digital addiction among children and adolescents, calling for timely government intervention to regulate their exposure to social media.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Jha highlighted the risks posed by unregulated access to smartphones and online platforms, particularly the exposure of young users to harmful content. He cited international examples to underline the urgency of the matter.

Referring to Australia, Jha said that in 2025 the country enacted a law prohibiting children under the age of 16 from using smartphones after studies showed that 96 per cent of children aged 10 to 15 use social media, with nearly seven out of 10 being exposed to harmful content online.

Drawing attention to the Indian context, the JD(U) MP cited a 2025 LocalCircles study, which found that 82 per cent of children aged 14 to 16 can operate smartphones, but only 57 per cent primarily use them for educational purposes.

Jha stressed that the findings highlight the need for a comprehensive policy framework to protect children and adolescents from the adverse effects of excessive screen time and social media addiction. He urged the government to examine global best practices and take appropriate measures to ensure the safe and responsible use of digital platforms by minors.