Political parties accused of using children as political pawns in IIOJK
Srinagar: Political parties have been accused of using children for election related activities, including distribution of posters/pamphlets, participation in slogan shouting, campaign rallies and election meetings in occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Aisha, a 15-year-old girl, was allegedly coerced into participating in an election rally of an influential leader, carrying banners and slogans without knowing the political implications.
Similarly, 16-year-old Faizan has been putting up banners and posters of a political party in Srinagar and its adjoining areas.
The India’s National Commissions for Protection of Child Right has asked the Election Commission to initiate a probe into the use of school going children for election campaigning.
Child rights activists have called for accountability and safeguards to protect children from such manipulation in the future.
