Ballari, November 28, 2025 – In a stark revelation highlighting the perils of digital overindulgence, Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) Chairperson Shashidhar Kosambe declared that nearly all children surveyed in five districts are ensnared by social media addiction, resulting in widespread mental stress, instability, and depression.
Speaking at the inauguration of a State-level workshop on “Challenges and Solutions in Preventing Child Marriage” here on Thursday, Kosambe disclosed findings from a joint survey by the National and State Commissions for Child Rights. The study, covering Bengaluru, Chikkamagaluru, Belagavi, Raichur, and Chamarajanagar districts, found that 99% of children exhibited addiction to social media platforms, severely impacting their psychological well-being. "Most children suffer mental stress due to social media addiction," Kosambe emphasized, urging parents to closely monitor their children's behavioral patterns and embed positive values to foster responsible adulthood.
The workshop, organized by READS (a non-governmental organization), the District Legal Services Authority, the District Child Protection Unit, and CCL-K at the BDAA Auditorium, drew attention to intersecting vulnerabilities. Kosambe stressed the limitations of government machinery in tackling every child-related issue, positioning voluntary organizations as vital intermediaries between authorities and communities. He aligned the discussion with the Union government's ambitious goal, quoting Minister Annapoorna Devi's vision for a child marriage-free India by 2030, and called for unified action across departments, NGOs, and citizens.
Despite the State issuing multiple Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to combat child marriages—deeply entrenched in societal norms—Kosambe lamented the persistent challenges. Senior Civil Judge and Member-Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, Rajesh N. Hosamane, pointed out that Karnataka boasts over 60,000 Child Marriage Prohibition Officers, yet violations under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act and the POCSO Act continue unabated. "We must introspect and ramp up awareness," he said.
Superintendent of Police Shobha Rani V.J. advised the audience, particularly students, to focus on education amid adolescence's distractions. "Don't let social media, infatuation, or fleeting trends derail your future—stay in school and know the laws protecting you," she cautioned.
READS Executive Director C. Tippeshappa highlighted how poverty and illiteracy fuel exploitation, with minors often falling prey to child marriages and sexual offenses, leading to early pregnancies. He noted NGOs' role in grassroots sensitization alongside government efforts.
The event also saw the release of the second edition of a child protection law book, a child-friendly handbook, and posters aimed at curbing child marriages. Former KSCPCR Chairperson H.C. Raghavendra delivered an in-depth session on prevention strategies and hurdles.
Kosambe's visit extended beyond the workshop. He toured Parvathi Nagar Central Prison, inspecting facilities for the 463 children of inmates, including those of 11 women prisoners. Reviewing the kitchen, library, and overall amenities, he mandated joint oversight by the Child Welfare Committee, District Child Protection Unit, Health and Family Welfare officials, and prison staff to track each child's education, health, and safety via weekly reports. Addressing administrative lapses, he ordered the immediate relief of the prison's current teacher.
At the Backward Classes Girls’ Hostel near Basava Bhavan, Kosambe scrutinized living quarters, sanitation, water supply, and kitchen standards, voicing concerns over subpar vegetables and foodgrains. He directed the warden to uphold quality and encouraged residents to dial the 1098 Childline helpline for any harassment or issues. His itinerary concluded at the Morarji Desai Residential PU College for Minorities, where he evaluated infrastructure and proffered improvements.
The disclosures come amid mounting global evidence linking excessive social media use to youth mental health crises, with studies showing doubled risks of anxiety and depression for those exceeding three hours daily online. In India, where smartphone penetration among minors is surging, Kosambe's call for parental vigilance resonates as a proactive step toward safeguarding the nation's future. The KSCPCR, established under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, continues to advocate for holistic child welfare, blending enforcement with education.
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