LHC Calls for Policy Review on Social Media Ban for Under-16s

On January 28, 2026, the Lahore High Court (LHC) officially sought a formal response from the federal government regarding a petition to ban social media access for children under the age of 16. Chief Justice Aalia Neelum, presiding over the hearing, categorized the matter as a “sensitive policy issue” that requires a comprehensive legislative framework rather than just a judicial order. The petition, notably filed by an eighth-grade student named Aliya Saleem, argues that unrestricted digital access is causing “irreparable harm” to the mental, moral, and academic development of Pakistan’s youth.

Advocate Shiza Qureshi, representing the young petitioner, pointed to a growing global trend of digital age restrictions. She informed the court that Australia enacted a landmark ban for under-16s in December 2025, while nations like France, Norway, and Malaysia are currently drafting similar laws. The petition claims that social media dependency has led to increased anxiety, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content, citing a constitutional duty of the state to protect the fundamental rights of children.

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The court has directed federal law officers to consult with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Ministry of Information to submit a detailed report by February 16, 2026. This judicial move follows recent debates in the Senate, where lawmakers suggested forming a special committee to develop safeguards for minors. While the government previously withdrew a bill proposing prison time for parents of underage users, it is now reportedly considering a “digital age of consent” to better regulate the country’s online landscape.

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