New Delhi, February 5, 2024: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued stringent directives aimed at preventing the use of children in any election-related activities. Political parties have been expressly instructed to refrain from involving children in election campaigns, including the distribution of posters, pamphlets, campaign rallies, and election meetings.
The Commission has underscored a policy of Zero Tolerance towards the use of children in any capacity during political activities. It has explicitly prohibited political leaders and candidates from employing children for campaign purposes, including holding them in arms, transporting them in vehicles, or involving them in rallies.
However, the presence of a child accompanied by their parent in the vicinity of a political leader, and who is not engaged in any election campaigning activity, will not be deemed a violation of the guidelines.
In addition, the Election Commission has called upon all political parties and candidates to ensure strict adherence to the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act. Any violation of these provisions by election machinery under their jurisdiction will be met with severe disciplinary action.
The directives aim to safeguard the rights and well-being of children and underscore the Election Commission’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and legal regulations during the electoral process.
For further information and clarification, the Election Commission of India remains available for inquiries.