The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday instructed political parties and candidates to refrain from involving children in any form of election campaign.
The ECI has shown its commitment towards zero-tolerance on the use of children in any election-related activities. In an advisory sent to political parties, the poll body has conveyed that they should not involve children in any manner, including “holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a vehicle or in a rally”.
This prohibition extends to the use of children to create the semblance of a political campaign in any manner including use through poem, songs, spoken words, display of insignia of political party or candidate…,” EC said in a statement.
“However, the mere presence of a child accompanied by their parent or guardian in proximity of a political leader and who is not involved in any election campaigning activity by the political party, will not be construed as a violation of the guidelines,” it added.
The EC reminded all political parties of their obligation to adhere to the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, as amended in 2016.
Citing a 2014 order by the Bombay High Court, it has emphasised the importance of directions of judiciary. The order has stressed on the need to ensure that there is no involvement of children in any poll-related activity .
“Any violation of these provisions by election machinery under their jurisdiction will result in severe disciplinary action,” the poll panel said.
The ECI has held District Election Officers and Returning Officers responsible for ensuring strict compliance with child labour laws and electoral guidelines.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) will keep a tight vigil on the activities of political parties. The district election officers will monitor the campaign and if they find any violation, they shall be authorised to take strict action against the candidate and the party.
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