Punjab Assembly Backs Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

The Punjab Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution calling for a social media ban on accounts operated by children under the age of 16.

Government member Sara Ahmed presented the resolution in the House. It said the state has a constitutional and moral duty to protect children’s physical, mental, psychological and moral development.

The resolution highlighted growing concerns over children’s uncontrolled use of social media. It warned that young users can face cyberbullying, online sexual exploitation, harmful content and other serious digital risks.

Calls for Legal Age Restrictions

The resolution urged the federal government to introduce an effective legal restriction on social media accounts operated by children below 16.

Lawmakers noted that several countries have already introduced age limits and other regulations for children using social media platforms.

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The resolution said Pakistan also needs effective legislation to protect children and support their safe development.

It linked the proposed measures to wider international efforts to make online platforms safer for young users.

PTA Asked to Strengthen Age Verification

The resolution also called on the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to establish an effective age-verification system.

The proposed system would apply across social media platforms and help prevent children under 16 from creating or operating accounts.

Age verification could become a key part of any future legal framework. However, its implementation would require coordination between regulators, platforms and other relevant authorities.

Digital Safety Awareness Urged

The Punjab Assembly also called for broader digital safety campaigns.

Relevant federal and provincial departments were urged to educate parents, teachers and children about responsible internet use.

The campaigns would focus on online safety, digital awareness and the risks children can face on social media.

The resolution reflects growing concern among lawmakers over children’s exposure to harmful online content. It also signals a push for stronger safeguards as social media becomes increasingly common among younger users.