The Supreme Court of India declared that the right to access and utilize the internet forms an integral facet of fundamental liberties under Article 21 of the Constitution, emphasizing that digital connectivity is indispensable for modern education and development.

Balancing Digital Rights and Child Safety

A Bench comprising Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran addressed public interest concerns regarding children's digital exposure and the unchecked proliferation of harmful online content.

Key Observations and Directions

  • Universal Access: The Court disapproved of blanket digital restrictions on minors, noting that connectivity is critical while concurrently mandating strict safety parameters.
  • National Framework Against CSEAM: The Union Government was directed to establish comprehensive standard operating procedures, track databases, and consider legislative enhancements under the IT Act to purge Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material (CSEAM).

The Supreme Court posted the matter for further compliance monitoring on December 10, 2026.