Islamabad High Court Asked to Enforce Strict Social Media Regulation for Children Under 16

A major legal step has been taken regarding digital safety in the capital, where a petition filed in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has called on the government of Pakistan to ensure strict enforcement of social media regulation for children under the age of 16. The petitioner has opined that the federal government should develop a comprehensive framework for online child safety to protect young children from the negative effects of digital platforms. With the increasing use of smartphones in urban and rural areas across the country, parents are increasingly concerned about their children's online activities.

Why is it important to protect children online?

The call for social media regulation for children comes at a time when psychologists and parents have repeatedly warned that unregulated digital platforms are harming young minds. Platforms like Tik Tok, Instagram and YouTube waste hours of children's time, affecting their education, sleep and mental health. If the court issues a clear order on the matter, it will be mandatory for the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Ministry of Information Technology to frame age verification and usage regulations.

What demands have been made to the court?

Although the full details of the petition are still part of the judicial record, legal experts say it would have called for the following steps:
- Implementation of mandatory age limit on all major tech platforms operating in Pakistan.
- Screen time restriction and parental control features at the app or network level.
- Public awareness campaigns against screen addiction by federal agencies.
- Accountability of tech companies for failing to remove content targeting minors.

Practical tips for parents

Until the court and the government make a final decision on this policy, you as a parent can take self-protection measures at home. Set built-in screen time limits on Android and iOS devices, monitor your kids' online activities, and openly discuss digital habits with them. Reassure children that they feel free to come to you in the event of online harassment or any disturbing content.

What will happen next in court?

Keep an eye on the upcoming hearings in the Islamabad High Court where notices are likely to be issued to the federal government and other concerned bodies including the PTA. As the court hears the parties' responses to this request, it will be clear whether Pakistan takes a step along the lines of international models like Australia or creates its own set of regulations.