On Monday, the Senate introduced the Social Media (Age-Restricted Users) Bill 2025, which proposes a complete ban on social media use for individuals under the age of 16.
The bill, jointly presented by Senators Sarmad Ali and Syed Masroor Ahsan, aims to create a safer digital environment for minors and hold social media companies accountable for compliance.
Key Provisions of the Bill
According to the text of the bill, any person or company found allowing access to social media platforms to users under 16 could face a fine ranging from PKR 50,000 to PKR 5 million. In more serious violations, individuals may face up to six months imprisonment.
The bill mandates that social media companies verify users’ age and block accounts belonging to minors. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will serve as the regulatory body, empowered to:
- Shut down accounts of underage users
- Create and implement rules and procedures
- Issue appropriate orders regarding obstruction in implementation
- Make final decisions in cases of legal ambiguities
The bill also notes that if an account is mistakenly created based on reasonable evidence, the service provider will not be held liable.
Platforms Covered
The proposed ban applies to all major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, Bigo Live, Threads, and others.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani has referred the bill to the relevant standing committee for further review. If passed, this would mark a significant policy shift in Pakistan’s digital regulatory framework.
