Key Takeaways
- Islamabad High Court has issued notices to NADRA and Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority.
- The petition seeks a ban on social media accounts for children under 16 and comprehensive safety measures.
- The case aims to protect children from online risks such as cyberbullying and digital addiction.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority to provide their input in a case concerning the safety of children on social media platforms.
The petition, filed by an unnamed applicant, seeks a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework to protect children from online risks, including a ban on social media accounts for children under 16 years of age.
The applicant has also requested the court to examine the feasibility of NADRA establishing a secure and effective age verification system, which would be crucial in implementing the proposed ban.
The case highlights the risks faced by children online, such as cyberbullying, harassment, sexual exploitation, exposure to inappropriate content, and digital addiction, and calls on the state to take measures to protect children’s best interests, mental health, privacy, and dignity.
The petition emphasizes the need for stronger safeguards for minors using social media platforms, including measures to ensure parental supervision of children’s online activities and effective complaint redressal mechanisms.
The Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority is proposed to be included in the proceedings to help address platform accountability, personal data protection, and effective complaint redressal mechanisms.
The petition underscores the importance of a collaborative approach between the government and regulatory bodies to ensure the safety and well-being of children in the digital age.
The case is expected to set a precedent for future legal actions and regulatory measures aimed at protecting children from online risks.
