Kathmandu, December 27

The National Children’s Assembly, which concluded in Bhaktapur recently, demanded that both the state and political parties stop using children in protest activities.

As many as 36 children representing the seven provinces proposed in the new constitution had participated in the assembly.

Expressing their concerns about some recent incidents, including human chain formation using school children and death of some children in clashes between protesters and police in Madhes, the National Children’s Assembly, which concluded on December 26, said both sides should stop using children in protest activities.

The assembly also issued a six-point declaration demanding that their rights be secured. It also demanded introduction of child-friendly laws and relief to children in earthquake hit-areas.

The function was organised by a consortium of organisations working for child rights in coordination with the National Child Club Network.

Save the Children had provided financial assistance for the event.

According to chairman of the event, Yubaraj Ghimire, the assembly was organised to raise the voice against abuse of children in protest activities after promulgation of the new constitution.

Earlier, the National Human Rights Commission had also urged all concerned to avoid using children in protest activities.