Telecom Companies' Misleading Practices and Social Media Regulation in India
Telecom companies in India are misleading consumers by selling recharge coupons labeled as 'one month' while providing only 28 days of service. This practice forces customers to recharge more frequently, resulting in hidden charges. Meanwhile, the lack of regulation in social media is exposing children to harmful content. With rising concerns over national security and social harmony, there is an urgent need for effective legal measures to protect consumers and ensure the safety of younger users. The article discusses these pressing issues and calls for immediate government action.
| Jan 7, 2026, 19:45 IST
Misleading Telecom Practices in India
In India, a subtle yet serious deception by telecom companies has long gone unnoticed. Recharge coupons are marketed as valid for 'one month,' while their actual duration is merely 28 days. Charging for 30 days but providing only 28 days of service is misleading advertising and a direct violation of consumer rights. Globally, a month typically consists of 30 or 31 days, making it illogical and unethical to label a 28-day service as a month.
Impact on Consumers
This practice directly harms the average consumer. With 12 months in a year, the 28-day validity forces customers to recharge 13 times instead of 12. This means telecom companies are collecting an extra month's payment without offering additional service. It represents a form of 'hidden charge' that has been normalized through clever marketing tactics.
Regulatory Oversight
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has periodically issued directives for at least some recharge plans to offer 30 days of validity. However, the reality on the ground is that these directives remain largely unimplemented. The question arises: why is consumer interest not being effectively protected despite the presence of a regulatory body?
Social Media Concerns
Similarly, the almost unregulated nature of social media poses another serious issue. The lack of solid and effective regulation in India has led to significant negative impacts, especially on children and teenagers. Today, even children under 10 are active on social media, creating accounts with false ages and encountering content that could jeopardize their mental health, privacy, and even physical safety.
Need for Stronger Regulations
Australia has set a precedent by enacting strict laws to keep teenagers away from social media. This raises the question of when India will take concrete steps in this direction. The issue extends beyond just children. The rise of anti-national activities, rumors, hate speech, and attempts to disrupt social harmony through fake accounts on social media is also increasing. This situation is a serious concern not only for society but also for national security. It is time for governments to stop being mere spectators. Whether it is the consumer-unfriendly policies of telecom companies or the uncontrolled spread of social media, both require stringent, clear, and effective legal intervention. Otherwise, the consequences will be borne by ordinary citizens, future generations, and ultimately, society as a whole.