Actor Kunal Kapoor has come out in support of India reportedly considering restrictions on social media access for children below the age of 16, saying the step is forward-looking rather than anti-technology.
Also Read: Are young Indians giving up on success? The ‘soft life’ debate explained
The actor shared his views on X (formerly Twitter) while reacting to reports about the government exploring age-based limits for young users.
Actor calls the move ‘much needed’
Reposting a news update about the proposal, Kunal said the conversation around regulating minors’ access to social media is timely.
According to him, the focus should be on protecting young minds from platforms that are designed to maximise engagement and can become habit-forming.
“This is much needed. It’s not anti tech but pro future. Have to protect young minds from algorithms engineered to be addictive. And it also gives us a chance to build our homegrown platforms, that are focused on growth, not just engagement,” the actor wrote.
This is much needed. It’s not anti tech but pro future. Have to protect young minds from algorithms engineered to be addictive. And it also gives us a chance to build our homegrown platforms, that are focused on growth, not just engagement. https://t.co/7sigFqSi3d
— Kunal Kapoor (@kapoorkkunal) February 21, 2026
Government weighing policy changes
The Union government is reportedly examining the possibility of restricting social media access for users under 16 by amending the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
Also Read: France’s social media ban for under-15s explained: Why it’s happening and what it means for teens
The discussions are part of a broader global debate on how to balance digital access with online safety for children and teenagers.
From assistant director to recognised actor
Kunal began his journey in films as an assistant director before making his acting debut in the 2004 film Meenaxi: A Tale of Three Cities, directed by M. F. Husain.
He gained wider recognition with Rang De Basanti, which starred Aamir Khan and became a major cultural moment.
Over the years, he has appeared in films such as Aaja Nachle, Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, Bachna Ae Haseeno,
Welcome to Sajjanpur, Don 2, Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana, Dear Zindagi, Veeram and Gold.
Recent work and upcoming projects
After a short break, Kunal received strong critical response for playing Babur in the historical series The Empire. He will next be seen in the ambitious film Ramayan alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi.
The actor is also set to make his Telugu debut with Vishwambhara, where he will share screen space with Chiranjeevi.
Apart from acting, Kunal is a trained pilot and has also participated in rally and Formula 3 racing.
Also Read: ‘Mardaani’ is a voice for women: Rani Mukerji gets emotional about franchise impact