India, Aug. 16 -- The doctrine of parent patriae is a fundamental principle of common-law legal systems. It empowers the State to act as the ultimate guardian of vulnerable individuals

Social media is no longer merely a tool for communication; its algorithms are increasingly shaping how children think, behave and see themselves. From addictive feeds and cyberbullying to shrinking attention spans and exposure to harmful content, the risks are mounting. India must urgently rethink how technology protects, rather than exploits, its youngest users.

I speak to you today first as a mother and a citizen concerned for our society's fabric, and only then as a lawyer and lawmaker.

Before we discuss economic metrics, GDP growth, or digital expans...