New Delhi, Jan. 28 -- India is emerging as a potential next test case for age-based restrictions on social media, as multiple states begin studying whether Australia's under-16 ban could be adapted to the country's vastly larger and younger digital population.

The debate has gathered momentum at the state level, with Goa and Andhra Pradesh examining whether children below 16 should be barred from accessing social media platforms. The move reflects growing political and judicial concern over online safety for minors, even as questions remain over enforcement, legality, and unintended consequences.

"Australia has brought in a law ensuring a ban on social media for children below the age of 16," said Rohan Khaunte, Tourism and Information ...