India needs national debate on political appeals to children: Court

A bench of the Madras High Court has raised concerns about the involvement of children in electoral campaigns, urging the nation and Parliament to deliberate on the issue. Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy made the observation while addressing instances of social media content created by parents featuring their children appealing to voters on behalf of political parties.

The court specifically referenced video reels circulating on YouTube wherein children were shown persuading their parents to vote for particular political parties during the 2026 election campaign. The judge described such content as being in poor taste and reflective of inadequate parenting standards.

The High Court's intervention highlights growing concerns about the politicization of minors through digital platforms. Social media has become a primary space where electoral campaigns are conducted, with little oversight on content involving children or efforts to shield them from political messaging.

The court's call for a parliamentary debate suggests the need for regulatory frameworks or guidelines to govern the use of children in political communications. Currently, India lacks specific provisions addressing the deployment of minors in electoral campaigns, particularly through social media channels where such content can reach vast audiences rapidly.

The observation comes amid broader concerns about election ethics and the potential psychological impact of exposing children to political messaging during formative years. Legal experts suggest that clearer protocols may be necessary to ensure children remain protected from electoral campaigns while safeguarding freedom of expression.