Election – Nepal Poll Body Warns Parties Over Child Use
Election – The Election Commission of Nepal has issued a firm directive to political parties and candidates, cautioning them against involving children in campaign activities ahead of upcoming polls. The constitutional body stated that engaging minors in election-related events breaches both the election code of conduct and existing child protection legislation.
Reports of Minors in Campaign Activities Trigger Action
In a recent communication, the commission said it had received information from several districts indicating that children were being seen at rallies, public gatherings and door-to-door canvassing efforts. Officials clarified that using school students or other minors for campaign promotion, whether in processions or publicity drives, is strictly forbidden.
The commission’s move follows media reports, including coverage by The Kathmandu Post, highlighting instances where children were allegedly mobilised during election outreach programmes. Authorities have now indicated that monitoring efforts will be intensified and that legal steps may follow if violations are confirmed.
Legal Provisions Clearly Bar Participation of Children
Citing the Election Code of Conduct, 2082 BS, the commission reminded candidates that the rules explicitly prohibit the participation of children in election campaigns, public meetings and rallies. Section 13, Subsection (1), Clause (A) clearly states that minors must not be used or encouraged to take part in any form of electoral activity.
Officials stressed that non-compliance could invite significant penalties. These range from financial fines to the cancellation of candidacies. In more serious cases, individuals may even be barred from contesting elections for up to six years.
Candidate Asked to Clarify Alleged Violations
The commission referred to a recent case involving Ashika Tamang, a candidate representing the Rastriya Swatantra Party from Dhading-1. She was initially asked to provide clarification after reportedly conducting a campaign event within a school premises.
According to the commission, further concerns arose about ten days later when she was again alleged to have involved schoolchildren during campaign activities. Officials said the explanations provided on both occasions were deemed unsatisfactory. She has now been directed to submit another clarification as part of the ongoing review process.
The commission has not announced any final decision regarding penalties in the matter, but it reiterated that repeated violations could attract strict action under the law.
Children’s Act Reinforces Election Code
Beyond the election code, the commission pointed to broader legal safeguards designed to protect minors. The Children’s Act explicitly forbids the use of children in election-related activities. Section 66 of the Act categorises such involvement as an offence against children, strengthening the legal basis for enforcement.
Officials underscored that schools and educational institutions must remain neutral environments, particularly during election season. They noted that political activity within school grounds not only disrupts academic routines but also risks drawing minors into partisan disputes at a sensitive stage of development.
Call for Vigilance From Schools and Communities
With campaign activity increasing across the country, the commission has appealed to political parties to inform their local committees and campaign teams about the legal restrictions. It has also urged school administrators, parents and civil society groups to promptly report any instances where children are seen participating in election-related events.
An official from the commission said safeguarding children and maintaining the integrity of the electoral process are essential responsibilities. The official added that enforcement mechanisms would remain active throughout the campaign period and leading up to polling day.
As Nepal moves closer to the vote, the election watchdog has made it clear that adherence to the code of conduct is not optional. Authorities say they will continue close observation nationwide to ensure that the democratic process proceeds without compromising the rights and well-being of children.