Bhubaneswar: The Governing Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today moved to Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Nikunja Bihari Dhal alleging use of children in political rallies and meeting by BJP, which is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
A delegation of BJD leaders including Rajya Sabha Members Sasmit Patra and Sulata Deo today submitted a petition before the CEO here today.
The BJD alleged that BJP’s MLA candidate for Balangir Assembly constituency, Gopalji Panigrahi, used children in political rallies and meetings. The party has submitted a photograph in which Shri Panigrahi is shown with small children around him with BJP party symbol caps and uttariya for his election campaigning.
“Despite repeated requests it is distressing to note that the use of small children by Odisha BJP leaders and candidates in political events continues unabated. This not only violates the Model Code of Conduct and the basic rights of these children but also exposes them to significant health risks, particularly given the soaring temperatures in Odisha, which often exceed 40 degrees Celsius, and are expected to rise even further in the coming months,” the BJD said.
The party has previously raised similar concerns regarding the conduct of other BJP leaders in the State. Despite the MCC guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India (ECI), these leaders have continued to disregard the welfare of children by involving them in political activities, it said.
The BJD leaders said use of children in political rallies and meetings not only undermines their right to education and protection but also sets a dangerous precedent for their exploitation for political gains.
The ruling party urged the CEO to investigate the incidents of children being used in political events by Panigrahi and other BJP leaders in Odisha and take stringent action against them.