India’s Digital Wellbeing Advocacy Moves to Policy Stage Following Supreme Court Proceedings Under Diary No. 8128/2025

India’s evolving debate around children’s online safety has entered a new phase following proceedings before the Supreme Court under Writ Petition (Civil) – Diary No. 8128/2025, a Public Interest Litigation supported by ZEP Foundation through World Digital Detox Day, a noble initiative and the world’s largest digital wellness movement present in 78+ countries. 

The petition placed before the Court proposed a comprehensive policy framework to address rising concerns about the psychological and social impact of unregulated digital exposure on minors. Among the recommendations highlighted was a proposed prohibition on social media access for children below 16 years of age, alongside stronger parental safeguards, awareness programs, and responsible technology guidelines. 

During the hearing, the Hon’ble Court condoned procedural delay and observed that the issues raised primarily involve public policy considerations. The Bench granted liberty to the petitioner to submit a detailed representation before the appropriate authorities, directing that any such submission be examined in accordance with law. 

Observers note that the Court’s direction reflects a broader international shift toward collaborative policy engagement rather than purely judicial solutions to complex digital challenges. Across continents, governments are exploring age based protections, digital literacy programs, and regulatory frameworks aimed at safeguarding young users. 

Dr. Rekha Chaudhari said: 

“The future of technology will not be defined only by speed or scale, but by how well it protects human dignity. Through World Digital Detox Day, a noble initiative and the world’s largest digital wellness movement present in 78+ countries, we are inviting the world to rethink how digital culture can evolve with compassion, awareness, and responsibility.” 

She added: 

“This petition reflects a growing global realization that children’s wellbeing must evolve alongside technology. The proposal seeking stronger safeguards, including age based social media protections, is not about restriction. It is about responsibility. Societies progress when innovation and human wellbeing move forward together.” 

Through World Digital Detox Day, ZEP Foundation continues to advocate for balanced digital practices, community awareness, and family centered wellbeing initiatives designed to help people reconnect beyond screens. 

As discussions expand internationally, developments linked to Diary No. 8128/2025 underline a shared global challenge: ensuring that technological advancement supports the healthy development of future generations.