Supreme Court Affirms Children's Fundamental Right to Internet Access

Why in news?

The Supreme Court has ruled that children possess a fundamental right to access and use the internet, equating it with other fundamental rights and emphasizing the need for intelligent restraints rather than blanket bans.

Key points

1. 1Internet access is a fundamental right for children under Article 21 read with Article 19(1)(a).
2. 2Denying internet access to children is akin to denying them conscience and freedom of speech.
3. 3Court stressed that child safety and freedom are not mutually exclusive.
4. 4Advocated for intelligent restraints and grievance redressal mechanisms over blanket bans.
5. 5Acknowledged that children often access unregulated platforms when restricted.

Background & context

Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, and Article 21 guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. The increasing role of the internet in daily life has led to legal interpretations regarding its access as a fundamental right.