Lahore: Resolution on restricting the access of children below 16 years to social media has been submitted in Punjab Assembly (PA). Recommendation for introducing system for verification of age of underage consumers and for initiation of effective and regulatory steps have been made in the resolution.

The resolution has been filed by chairperson Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Punjab MPA Sara Ahmad. The resolution said providing protection to underage children against harmful effects of social media, cyber bullying , Online exploitation and improper material is moral and constitutional responsibility of the state.

The resolution said system for credible verification of age be evolved in the matter of use of social media accounts by children below 16 and proper legislation be enacted in this regard. It has been recommended to Federal government and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to set up effective regulatory and monitoring system.

Law related to use of social media by underage children and age restrictions have been introduced by Australia, France, China and certain states of US while effective legislation is needed in Pakistan to ensure safe digital environment for children.