Digital inequality refers to the gap between individuals, communities, and social groups in terms of access to, use of, and benefits from digital technologies. It encompasses not just the availability of hardware and internet connectivity, but also the capacity to effectively utilize digital tools for personal, educational, social, and professional purposes. In essence, digital inequality is not merely about having or not having devices, but also about disparities in digital literacy, technological fluency, and the ability to participate meaningfully in an increasingly digital society. This inequality can manifest across socioeconomic, geographic, generational, and cultural lines, creating divisions that extend beyond the physical realm into opportunities, knowledge, and empowerment. The lack of access to digital technologies is a primary driver of digital marginalisation. Individuals and communities without reliable internet, adequate devices, or modern software are unable to participate fully in the digital ecosystem. For instance, students in rural areas without high-speed internet cannot access online educational resources or participate in virtual classrooms, limiting their learning opportunities compared to peers in urban settings. Similarly, adults without access to digital tools may struggle to find employment opportunities, complete online applications, or engage in e-governance services. The consequences of limited access extend beyond individual disadvantage; entire communities can be excluded from economic development, social services, and civic participation, perpetuating cycles of inequality. However, access alone is insufficient to ensure digital inclusion. Digital skills, or the ability to use technology effectively and safely, are equally important. Digital literacy encompasses a wide range of competencies, including basic navigation of devices and applications, understanding online security and privacy, evaluating information critically, and creating digital content. When people lack these skills, even with access to devices and the internet, they remain at a disadvantage. For example, elderly populations may own smartphones but struggle to use social media, digital banking, or telemedicine applications. Similarly, low-skilled workers may be unable to leverage online platforms for professional development or income generation, reducing their socio-economic mobility. The absence of digital skills thus compounds marginalisation, as individuals are unable to convert access into meaningful participation. Digital marginalisation also intersects with existing social inequalities, amplifying their effects. Socioeconomic status, education, gender, disability, and geographic location can all influence an individual’s position in the digital landscape. Marginalised communities often experience multiple barriers simultaneously: limited infrastructure, lower affordability of devices and connectivity, and inadequate training or support. Women in certain regions, for instance, may face cultural or safety restrictions that hinder their digital engagement, while persons with disabilities may encounter poorly designed platforms that ignore accessibility needs. This intersectionality means that digital inequality is not just a technological issue but a social one, reflecting and reinforcing broader patterns of exclusion and disadvantage. In the