News Desk, Kolkata : The Election Commission has issued strict directives to political parties ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, urging them to refrain from using children in any form of election campaigning. The commission, in its guidelines released on Monday (February 5th), has emphasized adopting a ‘zero tolerance’ policy towards the use of children in election propaganda. Prohibitions include distributing posters, pamphlets, or slogans involving children. Regardless of the political affiliation or specific candidate, any use of children for election purposes, even holding them during political rallies, is strictly prohibited.
Anticipating the imminent announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule within the next few days, the Election Commission sent out these guidelines as a preemptive measure. The commission has explicitly stated that utilizing children in political campaigns through poetry, songs, speeches, or displaying symbols or images associated with political parties or candidates is strictly forbidden. Furthermore, children should not be used to celebrate the success of any political party or criticize opposing parties or candidates. The guidelines emphasize vigilance not only against promoting a particular party’s success but also against any negative commentary towards opposing parties or candidates by children.
In an effort to protect children’s rights and well-being, the Election Commission has extended its directives to encompass the Prevention of Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act of 1986. Strict adherence to this law is expected from political parties and candidates, ensuring that children are not engaged in any form of labor during the election period. The Commission explicitly mentions that parents or guardians of children who are not involved in any political party’s election propaganda may attend political events in the presence of the concerned child.
The Commission has highlighted that any violation of these guidelines will be considered a breach, and actions will be taken against the offending parties. The emphasis on protecting children’s rights is part of the Election Commission’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has urged political parties to play an active role in upholding democratic values during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
In addition to these guidelines, the Election Commission has clarified that no election-related work can involve the use of children. This prohibition includes both the Election Commission and the administration, ensuring that all laws related to child labor and child welfare are adhered to diligently. District election officials and returning officers are entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring compliance with these laws in all districts.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar underscored the importance of political parties taking a leading role in maintaining democratic principles during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He particularly emphasized the need for political parties to actively engage in promoting democratic values, especially during the crucial time of the impending Lok Sabha elections.
As the Election Commission prepares to announce the Lok Sabha election schedule, these guidelines serve as a reminder of the ethical responsibility that political parties bear in ensuring the welfare and rights of children are upheld during the election process. The proactive approach by the Election Commission reflects its commitment to conducting elections with integrity and fairness, setting the tone for a democratic and inclusive electoral process in the country.
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