Punjab Assembly backs social media ban for under-16s

The Punjab Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution calling for measures to restrict social media access for children under 16.

The resolution seeks stronger legal safeguards to protect children from risks associated with online platforms. It calls for an effective regulatory framework to create a safer digital environment for young users.

The resolution was presented by Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Chairperson and MPA Sarah Ahmed. It urged the authorities to introduce legislation aimed at protecting children and securing their digital future.

The assembly called for steps to shield children from cyber harassment, online sexual exploitation and inappropriate or harmful content. It also recommended introducing an effective age-verification system on social media platforms.

Under the proposed measures, social media companies would be required to follow child protection standards. The resolution also called for stronger coordination between federal and provincial institutions to address online threats facing children.

Sarah Ahmed said protecting children and ensuring a safe digital environment should remain a priority. She said every child deserved a secure childhood as well as protection from risks in the digital world.

She added that the state had a fundamental responsibility to safeguard the best interests of children. According to her, effective legislation and regulation were necessary to protect young users as their use of digital platforms continues to grow.

The move comes amid growing international concern over children’s exposure to harmful online content and other digital risks. Several countries have introduced or considered measures aimed at limiting social media access for younger users.