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NHRC Acts on RJD's Viral Song: Minors in Caste-Hate Election Video

The National Human Rights Commission has taken serious action against a controversial election song. The viral video from Samastipur featured minor children singing political slogans that promoted caste-based division. Authorities have been directed to investigate and prevent exploitation of children in political campaigns. The NHRC has demanded an action report within two weeks while ensuring child protection measures.

Key Points: NHRC Notices Over RJD's Minor Children Caste Song

  • NHRC issues notices to Election Commission and Bihar authorities over viral RJD song
  • Song featured minor children singing provocative political slogans
  • Complaint alleges song promotes caste-based hatred and division
  • Violates Juvenile Justice Act and election campaign guidelines
2 min read

NHRC issues notices over RJD's viral election song involving minors, promoting caste-based hatred

NHRC issues notices over RJD's viral election song featuring minors promoting caste hatred. Violates Juvenile Justice Act and election guidelines.

"The allegations prima facie indicated violation of the human rights of the minor children involved - NHRC Bench"

New Delhi, Nov 10

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Chief Election Commissioner, the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar, and district authorities in Bihar's Samastipur over allegations that a viral election song promoted by workers of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) allegedly spreads caste-based hatred and unlawfully featured minor children for political propaganda.

A Bench led by NHRC Member Priyank Kanoongo took cognisance of a complaint stating that the widely circulated video from Samastipur featured minor children singing provocative political slogans, allegedly crafted to promote the political interests of the RJD.

According to the complaint, the language and tone of the song are "provocative, divisive, and aimed at deepening caste-based animosity in society," and the involvement of minors amounted to exploitation, violating the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.

The complainant further alleged that exposing children to such caste-based ideology threatened their psychological well-being and undermined democratic and constitutional values, including Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(a), and 21 of the Constitution.

The complaint sought an independent investigation into the creation and dissemination of the video, identification of those responsible, and strict legal action to deter political parties, particularly the RJD, from using minors in future hate-driven or caste-based propaganda in the future.

Observing that the allegations prima facie indicated violation of the human rights of the minor children involved, the NHRC noted that the incident prima facie violated the JJ Act, 2015, as well as the Election Commission of India's guidelines prohibiting the use of children in political campaigns.

The apex human rights body has directed the Chief Election Commissioner, the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar, the District Election Commissioner-cum-DC of Samastipur, and the Superintendent of Police, Samastipur, to enquire into the matter and take urgent steps to prevent the exploitation of minors by RJD workers or supporters.

The NHRC has also asked authorities to ensure the protection of child rights under the JJ Act. Additionally, authorities have been asked to provide counselling to the children featured in the video, as well as to their parents or guardians, if required.

An Action Taken Report (ATR) has been sought by the NHRC within two weeks for its perusal.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
As a parent, this makes me very angry. Children should be in schools learning, not being used as political pawns. The psychological impact on these kids could be long-lasting. Strict action needed!
A
Arjun K
While I agree children shouldn't be used in politics, let's not forget that all parties do this during elections. The focus should be on creating better systems rather than targeting one party specifically.
S
Sarah B
Good to see NHRC acting promptly. Caste-based politics has ruined our society for decades. Time for political parties to mature and focus on real issues like employment, education, and healthcare.
V
Vikram M
The counselling for children and parents is a much-needed step. Hope the authorities also educate communities about why such practices are harmful. We need awareness at the grassroots level.
M
Michael C
This is exactly why we need stronger child protection laws in India. Political parties will keep exploiting loopholes unless there are serious consequences. Hope the ATR leads to meaningful action.

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