Author: M. AISHWARYA LAKSHMI, a student Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr.Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology
To the Point
Today, politics is not just about speeches, debates, and TV news. It happens every day on our phones, especially on apps like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Political leaders now use these platforms to talk to people directly, share opinions, and promote their messages. With millions of users scrolling every day, social media has become one of the most powerful tools in politics.
What makes these platforms special is their ability to reach people instantly. A single tweet or post can influence thousands of minds within seconds. These tools are especially important for younger generations who spend more time online than watching the news. This article looks at how leaders use Instagram and X, how it affects what people believe, and why we need to be careful about what we see and share in the digital world.
Abstract
Social media has changed the way people understand and talk about politics. Instead of watching long news reports or reading newspapers, people now get political updates through short posts, videos, memes, and stories. Leaders and activists use platforms like Instagram and X to connect with the public, spread their ideas, and even win support during elections.
These platforms offer a space for everyone to participate, giving voice to ordinary people and bringing attention to issues that might be ignored in mainstream media. But there are also serious problems—like fake news, cyberbullying, biased content, and online fights. This article explains how social media helps and hurts political understanding and why both users and lawmakers need to pay attention to how these platforms shape our thinking.
Use of Legal Jargon
In a democracy, freedom of speech and access to information are very important. These rights are guaranteed by the Constitution, especially under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution, which ensures the right to freedom of speech and expression. But when political speech happens on private platforms like Instagram and X, things get complicated.
These platforms are run by private companies and have their own community rules and algorithms that determine what users see. This leads to questions of “platform governance,” which is the power of tech companies to control what content is promoted, removed, or hidden. This kind of control can affect political opinions and discussions without following any democratic process.
Additionally, digital laws such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, play a role in regulating content, data privacy, and online behaviour. Issues like misinformation, fake news, hate speech, and content moderation fall under cyber law and digital rights. As politics increasingly moves online, lawmakers and courts must update legal thinking to ensure rights are protected in digital spaces as well.
The Proof
There are many real examples of how social media affects politics:
Direct Communication: Leaders like Narendra Modi, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Donald Trump have used X to talk directly to citizens. They post short messages that reach millions instantly and shape news headlines.
Protest Movements: During movements like Black Lives Matter (USA), Shaheen Bagh (India), and the farmers’ protests, Instagram stories and hashtags helped activists organize and spread messages globally.
Infographics and Education: Instagram is also used to share infographics—colorful, simplified posts that explain complex political ideas. This method is especially effective for engaging young users.
But these platforms are not without flaws:
Echo Chambers: Algorithms on Instagram and X tend to show users content similar to what they already like. This creates “echo chambers,” where people see only one-sided views and ignore other perspectives.
Misinformation: Fake news spreads faster than real news, especially if it’s sensational. This misleads people and can affect their political choices and beliefs.
Viral Content Over Accuracy: Platforms reward content that gets likes and shares, not necessarily content that is true. As a result, emotional or dramatic posts often go viral, even if they are misleading.
Social media can educate and connect people, but it can also confuse and divide them. That’s why it’s essential to use these platforms wisely and support efforts to make them more accountable.
Case Laws
Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015)
The Supreme Court of India struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, which had allowed police to arrest people for online posts that were deemed “offensive.” The court held that the law violated the right to freedom of speech and expression. This judgment protected people’s right to express political opinions online.
Foundation for Media Professionals v. Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir (2020)
In this case, the court ruled that internet shutdowns cannot be indefinite and must be justified. The case emphasized that access to the internet is essential for exercising fundamental rights like freedom of expression and information, especially during protests or political unrest.
Zubair v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2022)
The case involved the arrest of a journalist over tweets that were critical of government policies. It sparked a debate on the misuse of legal tools to suppress online speech and raised concerns about the shrinking space for digital dissent.
These cases show how courts are increasingly recognizing the role of digital platforms in safeguarding democratic values.
Conclusion
Social media has revolutionized how political leaders connect and interact with the public. Platforms such as Instagram and X enable political leaders to communicate directly with the public, avoiding traditional media channels like journalists. Through live videos, short posts, and reels, they can connect with voters in real time, respond to issues quickly, and build personal images.
At the same time, social media gives citizens the power to hold leaders accountable, spread awareness, and join causes. However, this comes with challenges. Misinformation, online abuse, and polarization can damage public trust and democratic dialogue.
To ensure that social media helps politics instead of harming it, we need multiple steps:
Educate people to think critically and spot fake news.
Ask platforms to be transparent about how they show content.
Update laws to protect free speech while stopping harmful content.
Encourage political leaders to use these tools responsibly.
When used thoughtfully, social media can serve as a powerful catalyst for meaningful political change. If left unchecked, it can damage the very foundations of democracy.
FAQS
Why do political leaders use social media?
To share their views instantly, connect with voters, promote their image, and reach people directly without relying on news channels.
How does social media affect elections?
It helps leaders spread messages quickly and gather support. However, it also increases the risk of spreading fake news and emotional content that may mislead voters.
What are the risks of political posts online?
People can fall into echo chambers, believe misinformation, and become more divided. Online hate and bullying can also silence voices.
Are there laws to regulate political content online?
Yes, digital platforms are partly regulated under the IT Act and Rules in India, but much depends on platform policies. Legal experts are calling for better regulation.
How can we make social media better for politics?
By encouraging digital literacy, fact-checking, and ethical behavior. Also, governments, tech companies, and citizens must work together to ensure that social media supports democracy, not undermines it.
