BENGALURU, Feb. 23 -- The Karnataka government is considering prohibiting students under 16 from using mobile phones, with chief minister Siddaramaiah initiating consultations with vice chancellors of universities as part of an effort to address concerns about social media addiction and its effects on children.

At the meeting convened by the Karnataka State Higher Education Council, Siddaramaiah said the proposal was still in the discussion stage and sought the vice chancellors' views on whether restrictions should be imposed on minors.

"Today we are discussing this, and as you are all the vice chancellors here, I seek your opinion. Children are falling prey to drugs. Also, in line with various other countries, like Australia, there is ...