LAHORE – A resolution calling for a ban on social media accounts for children under the age of 16 has been submitted to the Punjab Assembly, urging the federal government to introduce stricter age verification measures on digital platforms.
The resolution was tabled by Punjab Assembly member Sarah Ahmed, who argued that protecting the physical, mental, psychological, and moral development of children under 16 is the state’s constitutional responsibility.
According to the resolution, the unchecked use of social media is exposing children to a range of risks, including cyberbullying, online sexual exploitation, inappropriate content, and increasing mental health challenges.
It further states that several countries around the world have already introduced legislation and age restrictions governing social media use by minors to enhance online safety.
The resolution recommends that the Punjab Assembly formally urge the federal government to direct the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to require all social media platforms operating in Pakistan to implement robust age verification systems, preventing children under the age of 16 from creating or accessing social media accounts.
The proposal is expected to be taken up for discussion in the Punjab Assembly in accordance with the House’s legislative agenda.
