📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Avrajyoti Mitra
Technology
Delhi HC hears public interest petition on addictive social media design features
✍️ Amar Ujala · Delhi
🗓 09 Sep 2026, 09:47 PM
👁 17
A public interest petition filed in the Delhi High Court seeks a probe into features like infinite scroll and autoplay that encourage excessive use of social media, and calls for an expert committee.
A public interest petition has been submitted to the Delhi High Court demanding a judicial inquiry into certain design elements of social media platforms that are alleged to foster compulsive usage. The petition specifically highlights features such as infinite scrolling and autoplay, which keep users engaged for prolonged periods without deliberate intent.
The petitioner argues that these design choices exploit psychological triggers, making it difficult for users—especially younger demographics—to disengage. By presenting an endless feed of content and automatically playing videos, the platforms create a feedback loop that can lead to excessive screen time and associated mental‑health concerns.
To address the issue, the petition seeks the formation of an expert committee comprising technologists, psychologists and consumer‑rights advocates. The committee would be tasked with studying the impact of such features, recommending regulatory guidelines, and advising the government on possible interventions.
Legal experts note that the case reflects a broader national debate on digital well‑being and the responsibility of tech companies. The High Court’s response could set a precedent for future regulatory actions aimed at curbing addictive digital design.
The petitioner argues that these design choices exploit psychological triggers, making it difficult for users—especially younger demographics—to disengage. By presenting an endless feed of content and automatically playing videos, the platforms create a feedback loop that can lead to excessive screen time and associated mental‑health concerns.
To address the issue, the petition seeks the formation of an expert committee comprising technologists, psychologists and consumer‑rights advocates. The committee would be tasked with studying the impact of such features, recommending regulatory guidelines, and advising the government on possible interventions.
Legal experts note that the case reflects a broader national debate on digital well‑being and the responsibility of tech companies. The High Court’s response could set a precedent for future regulatory actions aimed at curbing addictive digital design.