In a recent affidavit before the Madras High Court, the ECI reiterated its 2024 directive banning the use of minors in election-related activities; a move sparked by a PIL alleging that TVK president C Joseph Vijay urged children to sway their parents’ votes. The Commission insists voters are adults capable of independent decisions; and that no presumption of indirect pressure can be assumed without concrete evidence. While the petition didn’t prove direct child involvement, the ECI is taking no chances: it’s actively monitoring for 'undue influence' under the Representation of the People Act. And yes, consequences are real; from fines to freezing a party’s symbol. This isn’t just about ethics; it’s about protecting democracy’s core: the voter’s free will. With ₹599 crore seized during Tamil Nadu’s polls, the ECI is sending a message: clean elections start with keeping kids out of the game.