The Lahore High Court asked the government to respond to a plea seeking limits on social media use by children under 16. Chief Justice Aalia Neelum called the issue sensitive and significant. She said it requires careful legal and policy-level consideration.
The court heard the petition filed by eighth-grade student Aalia Saleem in Lahore. Chief Justice Neelum issued notices to the PTA and the Ministry of Law and Justice. She directed all concerned departments to submit replies by February 10.
Read more: France approves social media ban for under-15s
During the hearing, the chief justice noted the issue affects families and society. She said unchecked digital access can shape young minds negatively. Therefore, she urged the government to examine the matter seriously.
The petitioner argued that platforms like TikTok expose children to inappropriate content. She said such content promotes harmful behavior and unhealthy trends. She added that current regulatory mechanisms are weak and ineffective.
Read more: UK, France weigh social media ban for teens
The petition said protecting children’s fundamental rights is a state duty. It called for regulatory steps to safeguard minors online. Finally, the court fixed the matter for hearing after receiving official responses.