A petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court seeking a nationwide ban on social media use for children under the age of sixteen years.
The move comes after several countries, including Australia, the UK, and France, urged restrictions on social media to protect minors from harmful online exposure.
Class 8 student Aliya Saleem submitted the petition through her lawyer, Sheeza, naming the federal government, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and other relevant authorities as respondents.
The petition argued that social media use is harming children’s mental, moral, and educational development, potentially creating long-term psychological issues that affect their personality and overall well-being.
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It further stated that unrestricted access exposes children to inappropriate content, unhealthy online behavior, and early exposure to influences that could negatively shape their growth and character.
The petitioner emphasized that the state has a constitutional duty to safeguard children’s fundamental rights under national laws and international obligations regarding minors’ protection and welfare.
It urged the Lahore High Court to consider restricting social media access for children under sixteen to ensure their safety, healthy development, and psychological well-being.
The case now awaits further proceedings in the Lahore High Court, where judges will decide whether legal measures will be implemented to protect minors online.
