The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Coimbatore): In Coimbatore, an investigation has been launched concerning the involvement of schoolchildren in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s roadshow, a move led by the Coimbatore District Education Officer. The occurrence, which took place on March 18, 2024, has prompted directives for stringent measures against the headmaster and staff of the Sri Sai Baba Vidyalayam Aided Middle School. A comprehensive report detailing the incident has been demanded, following observations of children, some dressed as Hindu deities and adorned in saffron, participating actively in the political event.
This action has stirred controversy, as it contravenes the Election Commission of India’s clear guidelines against utilizing children in political campaigns. The guidelines prohibit any form of children’s involvement that might echo political campaigning, including performances and the display of political insignia.
Despite attempts to reach the school’s headmaster for comments, reports from students indicated that they were instructed to convene at a specific location prior to the commencement of the roadshow. This four-kilometer stretch, where the event unfolded, saw children in roles that seemingly breached the set electoral norms.
In response to the public outcry and subsequent media reports, Coimbatore District Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, ensuring an in-depth investigation into the matter. This inquiry aims to examine the extent of the children’s participation and the BJP’s involvement in orchestrating these performances during the roadshow.
Educational and labor department officials have been mobilized to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. With the Chief Education Officer highlighting prior warnings against such practices, and the Assistant Returning Officer confirming the breach of the Model Code of Conduct, the inquiry is set to explore the depth of the violation and propose actions in alignment with the Election Commission’s regulations.
