Lahore High Court Seeks Response on Petition to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16

Lahore: The Lahore High Court (LHC) heard a petition seeking a ban on social media usage for children under the age of 16, emphasizing the need for urgent attention to the matter.

The hearing was presided over by Chief Justice Ms. Aaliya Neelum, who reviewed the petition filed by eighth-grade student Alaya Saleem through her lawyer Shiza Qureshi.

The court directed the federal government, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and other relevant authorities to submit their responses within one week.

During the proceedings, the Chief Justice remarked that the issue is significant and requires careful consideration.

The petition argues that social media is negatively affecting children’s mental, moral, and educational development, and that it is the state’s responsibility to safeguard the fundamental rights of minors. It specifically highlighted platforms such as TikTok and other social media apps, claiming they have adverse psychological effects on young children.

The petitioner requested the court to impose a ban on social media use for children under 16 years of age to protect their well-being.