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By Tanveer Ahmed :
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the federal government to submit a comprehensive report on the measures being taken to regulate children’s access to social media, amid increasing concerns over online safety for minors.
The directive was issued by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir during the hearing of a constitutional petition filed by a minor, Akbar Khan Shinwari, through his father. The petition seeks enforcement of fundamental rights and calls for restrictions on the use of social media platforms by children under the age of 16.
In its order, the court stressed that the protection and welfare of children must be treated as a serious national responsibility. It observed that unregulated access to social media exposes minors to multiple risks, including cyber harassment, psychological harm, data misuse and exposure to inappropriate or harmful material.
The court issued notices to the federal government, the Ministry of Information Technology, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), instructing them to submit detailed responses and para-wise comments by March 3.
The IHC has specifically sought information on the age-verification mechanisms currently used by social media platforms and the steps being taken to ensure that age restrictions are effectively enforced. It also asked the authorities to explain how online platforms are being monitored and what enforcement mechanisms exist to protect underage users.
Additionally, the court directed the government to share details of any proposed policies, draft regulations or executive actions related to social media governance for minors. The report must also clarify how the recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, are being implemented to safeguard children’s digital rights.
The IHC further asked for an update on the proposed Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority, including its current status, planned functions and role in ensuring online safety for children.
The court noted that digital regulation must strike a balance between freedom of expression and the constitutional obligation to protect vulnerable groups, especially minors, in an increasingly connected society.
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