Actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood has sparked a fresh national debate after he publicly called for India to consider banning social media use for children under the age of 16. In a strongly worded Instagram story posted earlier today, Sood referenced Australia’s recent decision to restrict social platforms for minors, urging the Indian government to evaluate a similar step to protect young users from the growing risks of digital addiction.
“Countries like Australia have already banned social media for kids under 16 — and it’s time India considers the same,” Sood wrote, emphasising that children “deserve real childhoods, stronger family bonds, and freedom from screen addiction.”
He praised the Indian government for taking “incredible steps for the nation’s future” and suggested that implementing such a restriction could become “another powerful example.” The actor stressed the importance of safeguarding the mental and emotional well-being of young people, adding, “Let’s protect our kids today for a better India tomorrow.”
Sood’s appeal comes amid increasing global scrutiny of social media’s impact on children, with concerns ranging from attention challenges to mental health issues and unsafe online environments. His statement has quickly gained traction online, prompting discussions among parents, educators and policymakers about whether India should follow the Australian model.
While there has been no official government response yet, Sood’s message has amplified a conversation that is already gathering momentum in several parts of the world.