Lahore, Pakistan – The Lahore High Court on Wednesday asked the federal government and relevant authorities to provide a formal response to a legal petition demanding a blanket ban on the use of social media platforms by children under the age of 16.
Details of the session and judicial actions
Chief Justice Alia Neelum heard the petition filed by activist Alia Saleem and a team of lawyers. The judge described the case as a “vital issue” that falls within the political and legislative responsibilities of the government to address.
The main arguments presented by the petitioners
The lawyers argued that the uncontrolled use of these platforms causes significant harm to children’s mental and educational development. The defense cited international examples, noting that Australia imposed a similar ban in December 2025, while countries such as France, Norway, and Malaysia are considering similar legislation. The court gave legal officials until February 16th to submit a report outlining the government’s instructions and its position on the proposed ban.
A parallel move in the Senate
This legal action coincides with legislative activity within the Pakistani Senate. Several members (including Falak Naz and Emal Wali Khan) have called for stricter censorship of content aimed at children under 18. Senator Sherry Rehman proposed forming a special committee to develop legal and technological safeguards in collaboration with relevant ministries. She emphasized the urgent need for regulations to protect the younger generation from the dangers of the digital world.
