The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has been approached with a petition seeking stronger legal protection for children using social media in Pakistan. The petition calls on the federal government to introduce new legislation and create a comprehensive regulatory framework for children under the age of 16.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on young users. While platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other online services have become an important part of modern life, children can also face serious risks, including cyberbullying, online harassment, exposure to inappropriate content and digital addiction.
Petition Seeks Stronger Age Verification
The petition, filed through advocates Muhammad Jalal Haider and Yahya Farid Khawaja, asks the government to introduce an effective system for verifying the age of people creating or operating social media accounts.
The petitioners argue that simply setting an age limit is not enough if there is no reliable way to determine whether a user is actually above the required age. According to their position, a proper age-verification system could help platforms identify underage users and apply safeguards designed specifically for children.
The petition also urges the government to develop a national policy focused on children's digital rights, privacy and online safety. It seeks clear responsibilities for social media companies so that platforms take practical steps to protect minors from harmful online experiences.
Focus on Children's Digital Safety
The petitioners have highlighted several dangers faced by children online, including cyberbullying, harassment, harmful material, online exploitation and psychological distress. They argue that prolonged and uncontrolled social media use can also contribute to digital dependency and negatively affect the overall well-being of young users.
They have called for the creation of a dedicated institutional mechanism responsible for children's digital protection. Such a body could help monitor online safety standards, coordinate with technology companies and ensure that child-protection measures are properly implemented.
The petition also refers to international efforts in countries including Australia, France, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Spain. These countries have introduced or considered different approaches to protect young users, including age restrictions, parental consent requirements and age-verification measures.
UN Child Rights Framework Cited
The petitioners have also referred to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and General Comment No. 25. They argue that protecting children's best interests should be treated as a legal responsibility rather than simply a government policy choice.
According to the petition, the lack of a reliable system to verify users' ages leaves children exposed to online dangers and makes it difficult to enforce protections intended for minors.
Several federal institutions have been named as respondents, including the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Law and Justice, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra).
Punjab Assembly Also Raises Concern
The development follows a separate effort in the Punjab Assembly. Last month, a resolution was submitted seeking restrictions on social media accounts for children below 16 unless parental consent is obtained.
The resolution, moved by Punjab lawmaker Sarah Ahmad, called for nationwide legislation aimed at improving online safety for minors. It highlighted concerns over cyberbullying, online sexual exploitation, inappropriate content, digital addiction and the possible impact of excessive social media use on children's mental and psychological well-being.
The proposal also called for reliable age verification and greater responsibility for social media companies. Platforms would be expected to follow child-safety standards and take timely action against harmful content.
The IHC petition now adds another dimension to Pakistan's growing debate over children's online safety. If stronger regulations are introduced, the challenge will be finding a balance between protecting minors, respecting privacy and ensuring that children can still benefit from the positive educational and social opportunities offered by the digital world.
