Islamabad: A bill seeking to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16 was tabled in the Senate on Monday, as lawmakers move to regulate digital spaces for minors.
The “Social Media (Minimum Age Requirement) Bill 2025” was introduced by Senators Syed Masroor Ahsan and Sarmad Ali. The draft legislation proposes a complete ban on social media account creation and use by individuals below the age of 16.
According to the bill’s text, social media companies will be held responsible for preventing underage users from accessing their platforms. Violations of the law could result in fines ranging from Rs50,000 to Rs5 million. Additionally, providing social media access to a minor could lead to imprisonment of up to six months.
However, the bill also states that platform providers will not be held liable if the violation occurred despite reasonable precautions and verifiable evidence of an honest mistake.
Under the proposed law, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) would be empowered to take down accounts belonging to underage users and to draft rules and regulations to ensure implementation. In the case of any ambiguity in the legislation, the PTA will have the final authority to interpret provisions.
Furthermore, if the law lacks procedural clarity in any aspect, the PTA will be authorised to establish the necessary protocols. The bill also grants the authority the right to issue directives to address any obstacles in enforcement.
The bill has been referred to the relevant standing committee of the Senate for further deliberation. Once reviewed, it will be presented for approval in both the National Assembly and Senate.
