While data driven political campaigns are not new, the use of complex digital tools to profile, reach out and influence Goan voters in the run-up to the state elections has sparked unease. Though legal experts say that no laws have been flouted, concerns have surfaced about data security, privacy of voters and ballot secrecy. Phones across the state are buzzing with students and interns asking voters about their electoral choices. Unsettling videos of the leader of a Delhi based party addressing voters by their names are showing up on smartphones spooking citizens. It is extremely worrying to know that parties have gotten hold of your identity and phone numbers. This is a clear breach of data security. Data analytics and digital media firms have been employed by political outfits to collate data and profile voters but they have taken the game to a whole new sinister level, the use of software to manipulate videos and replicate personalised video messages are a first in Goa's electoral battlefield; even social media profiles of voters are being scanned to know about their electoral and personal choices. Voters are anxious about who else has access to their data. This is a legal grey area but the IT ministry and the Election Commission should take cognisance of such quasi legal measures and initiate suitable action.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
