OSCPCR Seeks Probe Into Alleged Use Of Children By BJP In Bypoll Campaign In Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) has urged the poll authorities to probe into the allegation that children were engaged by BJP to carry their party flags during campaign for Dhamnagar by-election.

Stating that the Commission has received a complaint in this regard from Biju Janata Dal (BJD), OSCPCR Chairperson Mandakinee Kar said  in a letter to state chief electoral officer that children must be prohibited from taking part in political rallies are they do not have the legal right to vote till they are 18 years.

She urged the CEO to inquire into the matter, take necessary action and send a report to the Commission along with relevant documents. The Commission sought a response within seven days.

It may be noted that BJD had on Monday lodged a complaint with the OSCPCR accusing BJP of using children during their campaign for the November 3 by-election to Dhamnagar Assembly constituency in Bhadrak district.