IHC Hears NCRC’s Call for Enhanced Child Online Safety Measures

ISLAMABAD: The National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) has emphasized that it is the state’s duty to protect minors from online grooming, exploitation, and harmful content. This assertion was made during a recent hearing at the Islamabad High Court regarding social media usage by children under 16.

In a detailed 17-page response submitted to the court, the NCRC acknowledged the serious concerns raised in the petition. The commission highlighted the urgent need for age verification mechanisms and a robust regulatory framework, asserting that effective legal measures are crucial for ensuring online safety for children.

The NCRC proposed integrating child online safety provisions into the Digital Nation Pakistan Act, focusing on age verification and establishing effective protection systems. This initiative aims to combat technology-facilitated child exploitation and enhance the overall safety of children on social media platforms.

Looking ahead, the NCRC’s recommendations could lead to significant legislative reforms aimed at safeguarding children online. The court’s response to these proposals will be pivotal in shaping future policies and regulations concerning child safety in the digital realm.