EC’s Warning to Political Parties on Using Children for Campaigning

Delhi, 5 February (H.S): With the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission has issued a strict warning to political parties against using children for campaigning purposes. In an advisory sent to all parties, the poll panel emphasized its “zero tolerance” policy towards the use of children in any form during the electoral process.

The commission specifically mentioned that children should not be involved in activities such as distributing posters and pamphlets, sloganeering, or being present at rallies. Any use of children to create a political campaign, whether through songs, poems, or display of political symbols, is strictly prohibited.

However, the presence of a child with their parent or guardian near a political leader who is not involved in any campaigning activity will not be considered a violation. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has consistently stressed the importance of political parties as key stakeholders in upholding democratic values and urged them to be active partners in the upcoming elections.

This advisory serves as a reminder to political parties to prioritize ethical and responsible campaigning practices and to refrain from exploiting innocent children for their own gain.