Nepali Congress Spokesperson Alleges Violation of Election Code of Conduct Through Child Mobilization

Nepali Congress Spokesperson Devraj Chalise has alleged the use of children in election campaigning in violation of the election code of conduct. Speaking at a press conference organized by the Nepali Congress Central Publicity Committee, party spokesperson Devraj Chalise stated that using children in political activities is objectionable. He remarked that responsible political parties should not engage in activities such as using buses filled with small children to campaign for election symbols and candidates on behalf of their parents. He specifically mentioned receiving information about children being used to solicit votes in Chitwan for the election. He drew the Election Commission's attention to stop such activities. Chalise also complained that workers from some other parties were not adhering to the code of conduct in a dignified manner. He urged for a halt to uncivilized commentary and the spreading of hate speech via social media against parties and candidates with differing views. He stated that this would disrupt the environment for healthy political competition. Emphasizing that all political parties and candidates must adopt dignified language and behavior while expressing their views, he assured that the Nepali Congress is also conscious of this issue. He stated, 'A lot of information is coming from many places during the election campaign that the election code of conduct is being violated. Reports have come in that friends from other parties are not observing the code of conduct in a dignified manner. Specifically, children are being used in politics, which does not send a good message. Misusing their child rights and political minds for political objectives by influencing them is not within the election code of conduct. Activities like traveling in buses filled with small children and making their parents campaign for election symbols and individuals are activities that responsible political parties should not undertake. We want to draw the attention of the Election Commission. In Chitwan, it was observed that school children were urged to tell their parents about a particular party's election symbol. If children insist, it also affects the parents, doesn't it? Using children's minds for voting is not good.' He also urged voters to be informed about the background of candidates and political parties before voting. Mentioning that authoritarianism is born out of dissatisfaction, he urged Nepal to remain vigilant. He also appealed for votes based on past performance and future potential. – News Agency Nepal