That children are taking part is election campaigns is now a common scene across Bangladesh. Leading up to the 12th National Election, both political parties and independent candidates are using them in their electioneering programmes including rallies, processions and others. But this is not legal. According to the Bangladesh Children Act of 2013, the involvement of children in any political activities is subject to a five-year jail-term and a maximum fine of Tk 500,000 for the violators. Despite these legal safeguards, it is disheartening to see the continued use of children in election campaigns.
It is time to end this practice of using children in election campaigns. We should build an environment for our children where their rights are valued. How can we forget that children our future? Some of the instances of children being used in election-related activities include their participation in miking, distribution of leaflets, presence in public rallies. To stop using children as a political tool, we all should stay united and raise our voice against this malpractice. Also, we urge the authorities concerned to address this issue promptly and put an end to the use of children in electioneering, which a clear violation of the law.
Md. Golam Muktadir Mridu,
Student of Department of Marketing and International Business,
North South University, Dhaka,
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