– Parents do not have the right to compromise their children’s privacy by exposing them to social media publicity for personal popularity or financial gain, Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj has said.The Minister said parents could not decide on behalf of their children whether they should become social media personalities, adding that such decisions should be made only when individuals reach adulthood and have sufficient mental maturity to make informed choices.She expressed concern over the growing practice of adults involving children in dangerous activities and inappropriate content to attract online attention and generate income.

According to he Minister, some children are exposed to hazardous environments, encouraged to use obscene language and involved in adult-oriented or sexualized content, raising serious concerns about their safety and welfare.She warned that children placed at significant risk due to their parents’ irresponsible use of social media could be classified as vulnerable children.In such circumstances, protective guardianship might become necessary to safeguard their interests, she added.The Minister highlighted that children’s safety, privacy and well-being must take priority over the pursuit of online fame and financial gain.