Madhya Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MPSCPCR) has sought reply from Madhya Pradesh School Education Department and Education Officer of Rajgarh district for forcing the school students to participate in rallies and other programmes including creating awareness towards casting votes.
On receipt of a written complaint by the students in this regard, Chairperson of MPSCPCR Usha Chaturvedi has sought reply from the Education department whether any circular has been issued by the department to make the students a part of the rallies or campaigns.
School Chale Hum, Polio Campaign, Nirmal Gram, Save Water Campaign, Save Energy Campaign and in other campaigns the children are used to spread awareness by taking out procession which is done forcefully the schools.
Principal Secretary of State School Education department and Rajgarh District Education Officer have been asked in connection to the forceful inclusion of the children in the rallies held to spread awareness of different programmes.
The reply is awaited from both the parties after which next step of action would be taken. Matter came to light when a few students of Rajgarh district complained to the MPSCPCR regarding their 'use' in rallies, which affected their studies. They claim to have attended some rallies, which were not related to them like awareness rallies for voters to cast their ballot.
In case if there is any circular to allow the students to participate in the rallies the MPSCPCR would oppose and recommend for its cancellation. For such rallies help from NGOs and College students should be taken.