J&K: NCPCR urges EC to probe use of school children in election campaign by Mufti

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has called upon the Election Commission to investigate the alleged use of school going children in election campaigning by former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti in the Rajouri-Anantnag parliamentary constituency.

In a communication to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, the NCPCR on Friday, April 26, raised concerns about potential violations of election guidelines and the Model Code of Conduct by Mufti. The NCPCR cited a report, indicating the use of school children in Mufti’s campaign activities.

“The Commission has come across a ‘X’ report wherein it has come to the notice that Ms. Mehbooba Muti is using school-going children for the election campaign for Rajouri-Anantnag P.C,” the letter read.

Former Chief Minister and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti is contesting from Anantnag-Rajouri, against National Conference (NC)’s Mian Altaf, a Gujjar religious leader. It is noteworthy that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is not contesting from any of the three seats in Kashmir.

The action followed a report received by the NCPCR indicating the involvement of children in Mufti’s campaign activities. The NCPCR, in the letter, highlighted specific instances allegedly involving school children in electoral campaigns in the Rajouri-Anantnag Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission urged appropriate action in response to what it perceives as a breach of conduct norms.

Expressing worry over the possible infringement upon established norms and legal provisions, the NCPCR emphasised the integrity of the electoral process and the welfare of the children. The Commission urged the CEC to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.

Notably, elections in Jammu and Kashmir will take place in 5 phases. Votes would be counted on June 4.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow