Chennai, April 29:
Amid growing criticism over alleged involvement of children in election-related activities by C. Joseph Vijay, retired Madras High Court judge N. Kirubakaran has called upon youngsters to respond to election outcomes with maturity and responsibility.
Addressing the media, Justice Kirubakaran welcomed the high voter turnout recorded during the April 23 Assembly elections but expressed concern over certain trends on social media. He observed that children and young voters often become emotionally invested in political parties and leaders, and stressed the importance of developing the ability to accept both victory and defeat in a balanced manner.
He suggested that, ahead of vote counting, leaders across political parties, along with actors and public figures, should issue appeals urging youngsters to remain calm and composed irrespective of the results. Emphasising the role of families, he said parents must actively monitor how children and youth react during politically sensitive moments.
āCelebrate your victory; if not, prepare for the next election,ā he advised, underlining the need for emotional resilience among the younger generation.
Pointing to the role of social media in amplifying reactions, the retired judge also urged the Election Commission to consider setting up help centres to prevent any untoward incidents. He clarified that his remarks were general in nature and not aimed at any particular group.
His comments come in the backdrop of criticism from child rights activists, including the Tamil Nadu Child Rights Watch, which has accused Vijay of encouraging children to influence their parentsā voting choicesāan act barred under election norms.
The organisation termed such actions unethical and potentially harmful, noting that minors may not be equipped to handle the emotional consequences of political outcomes.
TNCRW has demanded a public apology from Vijay and called for the removal of related content from online platforms. It has also lodged complaints with the Chief Electoral Officer and the Tamil Nadu Commission for the Protection of Child Rights, seeking appropriate action.
The issue has added a new dimension to the post-poll discourse in Tamil Nadu, highlighting concerns over the intersection of politics, social media, and the well-being of children.