LHC seeks govt’s reply on plea to ban children’s use of social media

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Tuesday sought replies from the federal government and other respondents on a petition seeking a ban on children’s use of social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok.

Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the petition filed by Azam Butt, whose counsel, Rana Sikandar, argued that children are exposed to inappropriate content on these platforms, which adversely affects their education and promotes unethical activities.

The counsel further contended that in several developed countries, restrictions are imposed on the use of such applications by underage children, while in Pakistan the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken no effective steps to safeguard children’s future.

The petition urged the court to direct the government to legislate on barring underage children from using Facebook, TikTok, and similar applications.

Earlier, On September 11, 2025, the French government received a recommendation to prohibit the use of social media platforms by children under the age of 15.

The proposal came from a special committee formed in March to monitor social media usage among youth.

The committee, after months of review, advised that under-15 children should be barred from accessing social media platforms to safeguard their well-being.