Overview
The Lok Sabha listed a private‑member’s Bill titled Shield Bill, 2025 on 7 August 2026. The Bill seeks to curb addiction‑driven algorithms and protect minors from harmful content. Although the Bill could not be debated because both Houses adjourned early, its provisions signal a possible legislative direction for India.
Key Developments
- Children under 13 years may not create a social‑media or online‑gaming account without verified parental consent.
- All intermediaries must provide a parental‑control dashboard for monitoring activity, privacy settings, and screen‑time limits.
- Harmful content reported by any user, guardian, or parent must be removed within 36 hours, or 24 hours for child sexual material.
- Every app must display a ‘Report Child Harm’ button for quick reporting.
- Non‑compliant intermediaries face penalties up to ₹10 crore and possible suspension under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
- Officers who neglect child‑safety duties may face up to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of ₹10 lakh.
- An annual child‑safety risk assessment must be submitted to the government, and data collected for verification cannot be used for behavioural profiling.
Important Facts
The Bill draws on studies showing that social‑media algorithms promote addiction and reinforce extreme views, especially harmful to teenagers. Several countries have already imposed age‑based restrictions, and the Indian government has been monitoring the issue amid its dispute with Meta.
Exam Relevance
Understanding this Bill helps aspirants in GS 2 (Polity) – it illustrates the legislative process, the role of private‑member bills, and regulatory mechanisms for digital platforms. It also touches on GS 3 (Economy) – the financial penalties and impact on the tech industry. Moreover, the Bill’s focus on child safety aligns with GS 4 (Ethics & Governance) – safeguarding vulnerable groups in the digital age.
Way Forward
For the Bill to become law, it must be debated, passed by both Houses, and receive presidential assent. Implementation will require coordination between the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, child‑welfare agencies, and platform providers. Aspirants should monitor parliamentary debates, judicial interpretations of intermediary responsibilities, and any subsequent guidelines issued by the government.