A new bill was introduced in the Senate, proposing a minimum age limit for social media users in Pakistan. According to the bill, users must be at least 16 years old to create an account on any social media platform. The bill aims to restrict underage access and hold platforms accountable for violations.
The bill further states that if any social media platform allows a user under 16 to create an account, it could face heavy fines. These penalties could range from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 5 million, depending on the violation. This move is meant to ensure strict compliance by tech companies operating in the country.
Additionally, anyone who helps a minor create an account may also face serious punishment. The proposed law includes up to six months in jail and a similar fine between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 5 million. Lawmakers believe these strict actions are necessary to protect young users from online harm.
The bill also empowers the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block accounts of users under 16. PTA will be responsible for taking preventive steps so that minors cannot create accounts in the first place. This includes technical interventions and monitoring tools to ensure enforcement.
The proposal has sparked debate on digital rights and child safety in the online space. Supporters say it will protect kids from harmful content, while critics fear it may lead to over-regulation. The bill is now under review and awaits further discussion in Parliament.