Has NHRC Responded to RJD’s Controversial Election Song Featuring Minors?
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Synopsis
In a disturbing turn of events, the NHRC has taken action against a viral election song linked to the RJD for allegedly exploiting minors and inciting caste hatred. This alarming situation raises crucial questions about child rights and political ethics in India.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC has acted on allegations of minors being exploited in political propaganda.
- Concerns about caste-based hatred have been highlighted.
- Investigation into the matter has been mandated for accountability.
- Protecting child rights under the Juvenile Justice Act is a priority.
- Counseling services are being made available for affected minors.
New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) 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 regarding claims that a viral election song promoted by members of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) allegedly fosters caste-based hatred and unlawfully includes minor children for political purposes.
A Bench led by NHRC Member Priyank Kanoongo acknowledged a complaint indicating that the widely circulated video from Samastipur showcased minor children singing provocative political slogans, seemingly designed to advance the political interests of the RJD.
The complaint asserts that the song's language and tone are “provocative, divisive, and aimed at deepening caste-based animosity” within society, and the use of minors is viewed as exploitation, breaching the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Furthermore, the complainant claimed that exposing children to such caste-based ideologies jeopardized their psychological well-being and compromised democratic and constitutional principles, notably Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(a), and 21 of the Constitution.
The complaint called for an independent investigation into the video's creation and distribution, identification of responsible parties, and strict legal measures to prevent political entities, especially the RJD, from employing minors in future hate-driven or caste-based propaganda.
Noting that the allegations prima facie suggested a violation of the human rights of the involved minors, the NHRC recognized that the incident likely infringed upon the JJ Act, 2015, and the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India prohibiting the use of children in political campaigns.
The apex human rights body has mandated 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 investigate the matter and take immediate action to prevent the exploitation of minors by RJD supporters.
The NHRC has also instructed authorities to uphold child rights as per the JJ Act. In addition, authorities are urged to provide counseling for the children depicted in the video, along with their parents or guardians, if necessary.
An Action Taken Report (ATR) has been requested by the NHRC within two weeks for review.
Point of View
It is imperative to emphasize that while political expression is a fundamental right, it must not come at the cost of child rights and societal harmony. The NHRC's action reflects a commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations while maintaining the integrity of our democratic processes.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions has the NHRC taken regarding the RJD song?
The NHRC has issued notices to various election authorities in Bihar, highlighting the alleged exploitation of minors and the promotion of caste-based hatred in a viral election song linked to the RJD.
What is the significance of the Juvenile Justice Act in this case?
The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, aims to protect minors from exploitation and harmful influences, making the use of children in political propaganda a potential violation of their rights.
Why is the involvement of minors in political campaigns a concern?
Involving minors in political campaigns raises ethical concerns about their well-being and the potential for psychological harm, as well as undermining democratic values.
What steps are being taken to protect the minors involved?
The NHRC has directed authorities to ensure the protection of child rights under the Juvenile Justice Act and to provide necessary counseling to the minors and their families.
How does this situation reflect on political ethics in India?
This incident raises serious questions about the ethical standards of political parties in India, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable populations like children.
