Social media has enhanced the problem for candidates. Their photographs of poll campaign and rumours over objection regarding nominations are going viral. During the poll campaign, welcome and protest of the candidates are common things. But during the 2013 elections, protests were not highlighted and circulated such speed.
BJP candidate from Bhopal Central Surendra Nath were shown black flag in Shahpura while Uma Shankar Gupta had to face ire of public during poll campaign in Bhopal south constituency. Both had to make a retreat to avoid confrontation and a humiliating situation. In last 2013 poll, Babulal Gaur had to face ire and protest. But the news of protest circulated majorly through word of mouth.
Girish Sharma
Girish Sharma, Congress candidate from Govindpura constituency, said, “Youths should understand the difference between use and misuse of social media. They should use it with caution. Previously too welcome and protest used to happen but it was not widely circulated but now a days, video of protest of any candidate, goes viral. Any viral video dents the reputation of a particular candidate.”
PC Sharma
Congress candidate from Bhopal south PC Sharma said, “It is true that social media has enhanced the problems for candidates. It shows that public is now well aware. Social media is an important platform. It is good that public analyse the things and upload on social media. Political leaders will be alert and work in interest of the public. Otherwise they should be ready to face the ire of the public.”
Mahendra Singh Chauhan
Congress candidate from Narela Mahendra Singh Chauhan said, “Social media has negative and positive aspects. In my case, only one objection created rumor that nomination of Mahendra Singh Chauhan will be cancelled. But just after one hours, people uploaded posts that nomination will not be cancelled as objection is not of serious nature. One thing is sure social media are very quick.”
Rameshwar Sharma
BJP candidate from Huzur constituency Rameshwar Sharma said, “Social media is high-tech technological tool. It depends on how people use it. It is true that even petty issues get circulated and spread like wild fire if it is uploaded in social media. Earlier, such things never happened. It has enhanced problems for us (candidates). But the other side is that our positive news is also gets widely circulated on social media.”