LAHORE: In a move to bolster online safety for minors, the Punjab Assembly has introduced a resolution advocating for restrictions on social media usage by children below the age of 16. The initiative aims to create a safer digital environment for young users.
The resolution calls upon the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework that enforces age limits on social media accounts. It emphasizes the necessity of implementing effective monitoring and control mechanisms to safeguard children from potential online hazards.
Among the key proposals is the introduction of a strict age verification system designed to prevent children under 16 from registering or managing social media profiles. The resolution stresses that legal measures should be strengthened to support these technological safeguards.
Sarah Ahmed, Chairperson of the Punjab Child Protection & Welfare Bureau, highlighted the importance of protecting children’s rights in the digital space. She underscored that every child has the right to a secure childhood and a safe online experience, free from cyberbullying, exploitation, and exposure to inappropriate content. She also emphasized the constitutional and moral duty of the state to shield children from digital dangers.
The resolution references international examples, noting that countries like Australia, France, China, and several U.S. states have enacted legislation or regulations to limit social media access for minors. It advocates for Pakistan to adopt similar measures to ensure the protection of its young population online.
If the resolution is approved and effectively enforced, it could lead to tighter restrictions on social media access for children under 16, aligning with broader efforts to promote online safety across Punjab and the country.
