‘Act against use of minors in political content’

Chennai, July 2:

A child rights organisation has urged the TVK government to take immediate action against the use of children in political communication and monetised digital content, warning that such practices expose minors to exploitation and psychological harm.

In a representation addressed to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, Tamil Nadu Child Rights Watch (TNCRW) raised concerns over a recently circulated video on social media platform X, in which a child is seen commenting on a controversial political issue involving allegations of criminal conduct.

The organisation argued that the subject matter has no relevance to children’s rights and instead places a minor at the centre of an adult political controversy. TNCRW noted that the incident raises serious concerns under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which guarantees children’s right to participate in matters affecting them while also protecting them from exploitation and psychological harm.

Emphasising ethical responsibility, TNCRW stated that children should never be used to advance political, ideological or commercial interests.

The group also called for a formal inquiry into the production of the video, citing public claims that it may have involved repeated filming, edits and retakes. While it clarified that these assertions could not be independently verified, TNCRW said that if proven, such practices could indicate emotional pressure on the child and warrant investigation under existing child protection laws.

Among its key recommendations, the organisation urged the government to prohibit the use of children as political spokespersons, ensure strict scrutiny of monetised digital content for compliance with child labour and juvenile justice laws, and formulate comprehensive guidelines governing children’s participation in social media, influencer-driven content and political communication.

TNCRW maintained that these measures are essential to safeguard children from political and commercial exploitation, while ensuring that any participation by minors remains voluntary, age-appropriate and aligned with their best interests.

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