BAJURA, April 18:Various political parties in Bajura have assured of not involving children in poll-related activities.
In a program organized by the District Child Welfare Committee and the Department of Women and Children, representatives of major political parties signed a written commitment assuring not to violate child rights by using children in political activities. There is a long history of children being involved in protests, rallies and promotional campaigns. Many political parties have been found using children in the poll campaigns for the upcoming local level elections scheduled for May 14.
Parties assure not to use children, teachers in poll campaigns
According to Chief District Officer Devendra Lamichhane, who is also the coordinator of the child welfare committee of Bajura, the program was conducted with an objective of completely ending the involvement of children in elections.
The committee has formed a 22-member probe panel under the coordination of Women Development Officer Kamala Shahi to observe the violation of child rights in the local elections.
"If any political party is found using children in their campaign, we will at first warn them," said Shahi.
Despite the commitment of political parties, members of the probe panel are still doubtful whether they will fulfill their objective or not. Sher Bahadur Rawal, chief of District Child Rights Committee, expressed commitment to take stern action against political parties if they are found violating child rights or going against the election code of conduct.
