'Internet Access Is a Fundamental Right': Supreme Court Suggests Child Mode for Social Media

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has made important comments regarding children's internet use and online safety. The court said that the right to access and use the Internet is linked to the fundamental rights under Article 21 and Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. Children also cannot be completely deprived of these rights, regardless of their age. Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran's bench made it clear that the protection of children and their liberty are not in conflict with each other. The court stressed effective measures rather than restrictions to protect children in the online world.

What did the court say on children's internet use?

According to the report of Live Law, the bench said that keeping children completely away from the internet is not an appropriate solution. Today the Internet has become an important medium for education, obtaining information, communication and creative expression. In such a situation, depriving children of this completely may affect their opportunities to learn and express their ideas. According to the court, while protecting the rights of children, their freedom and development needs also have to be kept in mind.

Is it necessary to completely ban social media?

The court acknowledged that children are exposed to many risks on the internet and social media. Content related to online sexual exploitation and abuse is a serious challenge to the safety of children. However, the bench indicated that to deal with these threats, it is necessary to strengthen security arrangements on social media platforms instead of completely blocking children's access. According to the report, the court stressed on options like child mode and making mechanisms to identify and remove harmful content effective.

Why is the internet important for children?

The bench described the Internet as an important medium of ideas, information and creative expression. According to the court, for many children living in remote areas, the Internet is an important means of obtaining education and information. Digital platforms can also be useful for children with special needs, as they can connect with people facing similar situations. Therefore, the online security system should be such that it takes care of both the rights and needs of children.

Which old decisions did the Supreme Court refer to?

The bench referred to the 2020 case Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India. In this decision, it was said that freedom of expression and right to do business through the internet should be protected under the relevant provisions of the Constitution. The court also cited the 2025 Pragya Prasun case, in which digital access was linked to fundamental rights under Article 21.