Child Rights Commission Developing Social Media Code of Conduct for Online Safety

India's National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is developing a social media code of conduct aimed at strengthening online safety measures for children. The proposed guidelines will apply to popular platforms including Instagram, Facebook, X, and Snapchat. The NCPCR is collaborating with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), and social media companies on this initiative.

The development stems from a recent consultation hosted by MeitY concerning age restrictions for children on social media. The meeting addressed issues such as age-gating mechanisms, platform regulation, and the adequacy of existing legal frameworks. Discussions also explored the necessity of new legislation or updated guidelines in response to growing international concerns about children's online activities.

Key findings from the consultation suggested that a complete ban on social media for children would be ineffective. Participants highlighted risks beyond social media, including AI chatbots and gaming platforms, and discussed the effectiveness of parental control tools. A proposal for longitudinal research into children's internet usage and online harms in India was also put forward and reportedly agreed upon.

The NCPCR's code is intended to serve as guidelines, though the commission possesses statutory powers to act in cases of violations. Concerns were raised during discussions that blanket restrictions could isolate children from information and communities, and that young users are often adept at circumventing age verification systems.