Maharashtra’s Information Technology Minister, Ashish Shelar, announced in the State Assembly that the government plans to create a policy or law regulating social media use by minors. This decision follows a ‘Calling Attention’ motion raised by Assembly member Rajesh Pawar concerning the growing use of social media, online games, and digital platforms by minors.
Shelar highlighted that while some states have discussed social media bans, Maharashtra has taken a different approach by forming a Task Force on February 2, 2026. The Task Force is examining the impacts of social media on minors and digital advertising to propose legal and administrative measures based on national and international standards.
The Minister stressed the importance of not imposing a complete ban on mobile or social media for individuals under 18, recognizing the educational value of the internet. He emphasized the need for a balanced strategy and mentioned that the Task Force has a three-month timeline to provide recommendations on age verification, screen time limits, and digital safety education in schools.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the State Assembly, promising a thorough investigation into an alleged sand smuggling case in Majalgaon, Beed district. The investigation involves suspected police involvement and the examination of mobile phones belonging to three suspects. Despite recovering deleted data, no direct evidence of collusion has been found so far.
