The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled an AI-driven social media strategy for the 2026 assembly elections in five states: West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry. This multi-layered approach emphasizes ethical artificial intelligence usage and hyper-local accountability through constituency-specific "charge sheets." Designed to enhance digital outreach, the plan aims to engage younger voters while highlighting governance issues in opposition-ruled states and achievements in NDA-governed ones. The strategy was finalized amid increasing reliance on technology in Indian politics, reflecting the party's adaptation to evolving campaign dynamics.
Central to the initiative is the deployment of generative AI for creating engaging content, including Instagram reels, YouTube Shorts, and animated stories. These materials often feature satirical depictions of opposition leaders like Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin, and Pinarayi Vijayan to critique policies on issues such as corruption and public safety. To mitigate risks of misinformation, all AI-generated videos will include prominent disclaimers, ensuring transparency and addressing concerns over deepfakes. This tech-savvy method builds on past campaigns but incorporates safeguards following previous controversies.
The "assembly charge sheets" form a core offensive tool, particularly in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, where the BJP is in opposition. These documents detail alleged failures of ruling parties like the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and Left Democratic Front (LDF), covering topics from women's security to economic mismanagement. In contrast, for Assam and Puducherry—under NDA control—the charge sheets celebrate successes of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the local administrations, focusing on development and stability.
Also Read: Netizens Share Panic-Filled Reactions to Earthquake Tremors Felt in Kolkata
In West Bengal, the BJP is preparing individualized charge sheets for all 294 assembly constituencies, listing shortcomings of local TMC MLAs and the state government. These will be digitized and disseminated through an extensive network of WhatsApp groups, enabling rapid, targeted distribution. The party is also cultivating a network of local influencers who speak regional dialects to produce culturally resonant short-form videos, aiming to connect with Gen-Z and millennial demographics in a state known for its strong regional identity.
This strategy draws lessons from earlier efforts, including a recent incident in Assam involving an AI-generated video that sparked internal backlash, prompting stricter guidelines for "data-driven" campaigning. Messages will be tailored based on voter profiles, prioritizing youth employment and women's safety to resonate with key demographics. Analysts view this as part of the BJP's broader push to counter regional parties' dominance in southern and eastern India.
As elections approach in April-May 2026, the BJP's integration of AI and localized critiques could reshape digital politicking, potentially influencing voter turnout and perceptions. While the party seeks to expand its footprint beyond its strongholds, opposition groups have criticized the approach as divisive, setting the stage for a high-stakes digital battleground.
Also Read: PM Modi Says Budget 2026–27 Charts Tech-Driven Path To Viksit Bharat