A delegation from the Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) met with the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) to request an investigation into the reported involvement of children in a political event organized by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJD submitted an application seeking an inquiry and named Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, BJP state president Manmohan Samal, and former MLA Pravat Ranjan Biswal in their complaint.
The complaint highlighted that during a rally celebrating Pravat Ranjan Biswal’s entry into the BJP on July 12, several minor children were observed participating while donning BJP caps and carrying party paraphernalia. The BJD expressed serious concerns about the welfare and protection of children, emphasizing that children should not be exploited for political purposes that could expose them to undue influence or public activities.
The BJD urged the commission to investigate the matter and requested notices be issued to the concerned individuals, including CM Majhi, BJP state president Samal, and Biswal, to provide explanations regarding the alleged involvement of children in the political gathering. The party emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent the use of children in future political events, rallies, or campaigns, stressing the importance of safeguarding children’s rights and well-being.
