KATHMANDU: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the government not to use children in upcoming election and to further strengthen peace and security.

The Commission requested all bodies concerned including the government to respect citizen’s human rights as well as to strengthen security system in the election.

Issuing a press release, Commission Spokesperson Dr Tikaram Pokharel asked all sides to adopt patience and restraint as the role of everyone is significant to hold election in peaceful, fear-free and human rights-friendly environment.

“Hate statements targeting others as well as statements spoiling social and cultural harmony should not be allowed to express, dissemination and publicity of such types of contents and activities affecting peace and security should be stopped,” reads the statement.

The Commission has made aware towards possible challenges in peace, security and election environment due to hate statement by political leaders, candidates and cadres to other parties, candidates and leaders.

“Political parties, candidates and cadres have been found using children in election publicity programmes and political activities against election code of conduct as well as in election activities published and disseminated through social platforms,” mentioned the NHRC.

It also determined that the role of political parties, civil society, schools, teachers and guardians would be responsible not to use children in election.