The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued notices to NADRA and the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority. The case concerns proposed measures to improve children’s safety on social media platforms.
The notices were issued after an application requested that both institutions become parties to the ongoing proceedings. The IHC chief justice issued the notices following the request.
The petition calls for a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework to protect children from online risks. It seeks stronger safeguards for minors who use social media platforms.
Petition Seeks Ban on Social Media Accounts for Children Under 16
The applicant has asked the court to consider banning social media accounts for children under 16. The petition also seeks effective age verification systems and measures to strengthen parental supervision.
The proposed framework aims to reduce children’s exposure to harmful online content and activities. It also highlights the need for clear rules governing minors’ access to digital platforms.
The application asks the court to examine whether NADRA could develop a secure and effective age verification system. Such a system could help establish users’ ages and support the implementation of age-based restrictions.
However, the petition’s proposals remain requests for the court’s consideration. The notices do not mean the court has approved a ban on social media accounts for children under 16.
Social Media Authority May Address Platform Accountability
The petitioner has also sought the inclusion of the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority in the case. The proposed inclusion relates to platform accountability, personal data protection, and complaint redressal mechanisms.
The application calls for effective procedures to handle complaints involving children’s online safety. It also stresses the need to protect minors’ personal information when they use digital services.
The proposed regulatory framework would address the responsibilities of relevant institutions and social media platforms. The petition seeks stronger safeguards and clearer mechanisms for responding to online risks.
Petition Highlights Online Risks Facing Children
The petition identifies several dangers children may encounter on social media. These include cyberbullying, harassment, sexual exploitation, and exposure to inappropriate content.
It also raises concerns about digital addiction and its potential effects on children’s well-being. The applicant has urged the state to take measures that protect minors from these risks.
The petition emphasizes children’s best interests, mental health, privacy, and dignity. It calls for stronger protections for minors across social media platforms.
IHC Proceedings Focus on Stronger Child Protection
The IHC has issued notices to the two institutions after receiving the application. Their proposed involvement could help address questions about age verification and social media regulation.
The court has not yet announced a final decision on the requested measures. The proposed ban, age verification system, and other safeguards remain part of the petition.
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The case focuses on developing stronger protections for children using social media in Pakistan. Further proceedings will determine how the court considers the requested legal and regulatory measures.
