Election Commission issues strict directives regarding use of children in any election-related activities

Election Commission has issued strict directives regarding use of children in any election-related activities. The commission said, political parties have been advised not to use children in election campaigns in any form including distribution of posters, pamphlets, campaign rallies and election meetings. 

The Commission has conveyed Zero Tolerance towards use of children in any manner. It said, political leaders and candidates should not use children for campaign activities in any manner including holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a



vehicle or in rallies.

However, the presence of a child accompanied by their parent in proximity of a political leader and who is not involved in any election campaigning activity, will not be construed as a violation of the guidelines. The Commission has asked all political parties and candidates to ensure strict compliance with the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act. It said, any violation of these provisions by election machinery under their jurisdiction will result in severe disciplinary action.