As Assembly elections approach, candidates across Jamshedpur are turning to social media to amplify their reach, marking a shift from traditional door-to-door campaigning. Platforms like Facebook and X have become central in candidates' strategies, allowing them to share views, engage with voters, and mobilize support with unprecedented immediacy.
This digital trend is reshaping campaign strategies as almost all major candidates in Jamshedpur have established robust online presences, using these platforms to keep voters updated, answer questions, and promote events. The move to social media has added a dynamic element to the election atmosphere, bringing candidates closer to the public and intensifying competition.
Congress candidate Dr. Ajoy Kumar, one of the most active online figures, has effectively tapped into digital engagement, gaining over 25,000 followers in recent months. Known for his sharp commentary and direct questions to his opponent, BJP’s Raghubar Das, Dr. Kumar’s posts have sparked widespread discussions among voters and increased his online influence.
"Social media offers us a direct link to the community," said BJP candidate Purnima Das, who also recognizes its growing importance. Although her team continues on-ground efforts, they maintain a strong social media presence to ensure visibility. "It lets us engage with people quickly and broadly," she added, underscoring that keeping up with digital trends is essential. Das’s campaign is managed by a dedicated team who ensures real-time updates on her initiatives and policy stances.
Independent candidates have also embraced the platform for its cost-effective outreach, helping them compete with the resources of established parties. “Social media spreads information faster than traditional methods and allows genuine two-way communication,” noted a local BJP worker, pointing to the value of this approach for smaller campaigns.
Jamshedpur has long been a pioneer in political tech adoption. The wife of former Chief Minister and Jamshedpur MP Arjun Munda famously used SMS and website campaigns early on to engage constituents, setting a digital precedent that laid the groundwork for today’s social media focus.
JMM activist Shailendra Mahto commented on the platform’s effectiveness, describing it as "a hassle-free method of connecting with a broad audience." For candidates looking to engage younger, tech-savvy voters, social media has become indispensable.
“As more candidates log in, social media has become a critical battleground for the Jamshedpur Assembly elections,” said a BJP IT cell member. With direct voter interactions, real-time updates, and campaign insights just a click away, digital engagement is transforming the political landscape in Jamshedpur, making this election cycle the most interactive yet.
