Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission on Monday asked political parties not to use children in campaigning “in any form whatsoever”, including for distribution of posters and pamphlets or sloganeering. In an advisory sent to parties, the poll panel conveyed its “zero tolerance” towards use of children in any manner during the electoral process by parties and candidates.

Separately, the commission has also directed all election officials and poll machinery to refrain from involving children in any capacity during election-related work or activities. District election officers and returning officers will “bear personal responsibility” to ensure compliance with all relevant acts and laws pertaining to child labour.