Social media effective tool in Haryana panchayat elections
Impressed with the impact of social media in Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state, aspirants of the panchayat elections in Haryana are turning to social media which is turning out to be an effective tool to reach out the voters.
Impressed with the impact of social media in Lok Sabha and assembly elections in the state, aspirants of the panchayat elections in Haryana are turning to social media which is turning out to be an effective tool to reach out the voters.
Candidates contesting the election of zila parishad, block samiti and even sarpanch posts are using Facebook and WhatsApp as a platform to seek votes in the elections, which is considered as a popularity test for these leaders.
“Yes, social media, especially WhatsApp, is a very effective tool in our election campaign as it helps us reach voters while at home”, said Sunil Jaglan, aspirant of sarpanch post in the Bibipur village of Jind district.
“We have created a group of 87 people on WhatsApp, consisting primarily of the youth. They are helping us take up issues with the people, especially village elders”, he added.
Pictures and video clippings about the election campaign, including promises to the voters, are being shared on the Facebook accounts of candidates who are also inviting suggestions and issues of the people to woo voters.
However, the lack of android mobile phones and high cost of internet packs remain major barriers for such a social media campaign in rural areas.
“The candidates are making optimum use of WhatsApp. However, 50 per cent youths in the rural areas have Android phones and internet access. Personal and door to door contact, though, is still a more effective medium for elderly voters”, said Dev Dutt, who is contesting block samiti election from ward number 18 of Rohtak district.
“Yes, campaigning on social media is effective in reaching out to more voters,” said Ravi Singh of Bada Singhpura village, “but for those, who are not connected on internet, I think door to door campaign is very effective.”