The Lahore High Court social media ban petition has brought fresh attention to online safety
for children under sixteen in Pakistan. Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the petition filed by
Alaiya Saleem and issued notices to the Attorney General for Pakistan and Advocate General of
Punjab. The court asked both law officers to assist with legal questions during the next hearing.
During the hearing, petitioner’s lawyer Shiza Qureshi argued that Pakistan has no system for
verifying the age of children using social media platforms. She requested stronger legal
protection for children under sixteen and referred to measures in Australia, Italy and Brazil. The
petition asks Pakistan to consider similar restrictions and create a clear system for protecting
young users online. It also seeks safeguards that could reduce children’s exposure to
inappropriate material and other online risks.

Deputy Attorney General Rafaqat Ali Dogar appeared for the federal government during the
proceedings. Written replies from the Ministry of Law and the Pakistan Telecommunication
Authority were also submitted to the court. The petitioner’s lawyer further alleged that PEMRA
has not properly enforced its code of conduct regarding inappropriate scenes in dramas and
advertisements. The petition also requests amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes
Act to introduce age verification for children.

The petitioner has asked authorities to establish an effective child protection mechanism across
social media platforms. The court has not ordered an immediate ban and has instead sought
legal assistance before deciding further proceedings. The case could lead to wider discussion
about children’s digital safety, privacy and responsible social media use. Any future decision will
depend on arguments, government responses and legal questions considered by the court. The
hearing shows growing concern about creating safer online spaces for children while developing
clear rules that authorities and technology companies in Pakistan can follow.

Source: Lahore High Court proceedings, as reported by Media Channel

Fatima Khan