KATHMANDU: The Election Commission (EC) has called on political parties and candidates engaged in the 2082 House of Representatives elections to avoid using children in their election campaigns.

In a statement released today by commission’s spokesperson, Narayan Prasad Bhattarai, the Commission urged that parties or candidates should not involve children in activities such as carrying flags or election symbols, participating in cultural programmes, rallies, or actions directed against specific parties or candidates, nor in showcasing items like vests, T-shirts, or logos that feature flags or election symbols.

The commission has emphasized the importance of refraining from such practices, noting that it has received complaints regarding the involvement of children by political parties or candidates during their election campaigns, as well as organizing election-related events near schools during school hours, which disrupts educational activities.

As per Section 13, Subsection (1), Clause (A) of the Election Code of Conduct, 2082 BS, ‘Children should not be used or made to participate in election campaigns, public meetings, or processions.’