Bhubaneswar, Nov. 30: The state's child protection body has warned action against parents who would force their children to take part in television and reality shows that are shot during late night hours.

With more parents sending their kids for shoots that require them to stay back on the sets till late night, Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Kasturi Mohapatra said: "The children are tired to attend classes the next day. This affects their attendance and academic performance essential for their overall growth."

Mohapatra, who was speaking at an awareness programme on child rights here today, said that if found guilty, parents might be imprisoned for six months and also fined. The commission has also decided to take up suo motto cognisance of cases if they notice violation of child rights amounting to abuse.

It has served a notice to a private Odia channel asking it to schedule dates for child artistes around weekends, holidays or school vacations.

"Parents who are tempted by the spotlight or possibility of augmenting the family income by pushing kids into new assignments remain unaware of the trauma the child faces and the long-term implications," she said, adding that too much exposure to the entertainment industry had an emotional and psychological effect on children.

According to the current practice, a child artiste in the lead role has to be present on the set for 27 days a month. In case the child is cast in a supporting role, he or she has to be at the shoot for at least three days a week.

These commercial <>shows put tremendous pressure on children. They may encounter sudden popularity or even alienation in schools making it difficult for them the transition to adulthood, said the authorities.

Women's Co-operative Development Corporation chairperson Srimayee Mishra, who is also a television actress, revealed that there was a general opinion that serials with child characters were more popular with the audience and get better TRP. Parents are also reluctant to ask for a schedule change fearing their child may be replaced, she said.

"The children have to be on the set from 1pm to 7pm. In case of a wedding scene or a function, they have to stay for more than 12 hours till all artistes get their make-up and shoots done. It is very exhausting for them," said Mishra.