The Modi government is embroiled in controversy over allegations of deploying multifaceted strategies to secure electoral victories, casting doubt on the integrity of India’s democratic process. An Al Jazeera report sheds light on a sophisticated social media campaign orchestrated by the government to bolster its image as the nation’s preeminent political force. Central to this campaign is a BJP-run cell, purportedly responsible for orchestrating daily viral messaging tactics, disseminating potentially misleading content to sway public opinion. Timing is key, as the campaign coincides with election announcements, suggesting possible exploitation of official databases, potentially through WhatsApp messages, to bolster electoral prospects.
Financial transparency is also under scrutiny, with reports indicating a disproportionate share of Electoral Bond Funds flowing to the BJP, fueling allegations of undue influence and questioning electoral fairness. Beyond social media, the BJP’s aggressive pursuit of political dominance extends to challenges faced by opposition parties, including the imprisonment of their leaders on corruption charges, seen as attempts to suppress dissent and weaken rivals. This controversy underscores the broader scrutiny surrounding the Modi government’s use of technology as a political tool, with allegations of leveraging digital platforms to advance political agendas and consolidate power.