Enter, the neutral' neighbourhood election influencers

Hyderabad: In an interesting irony, around election time, the role of influencers is donned by local residents and neighbourhood acquaintances of the indecisive and neutral voters. They play a major role in ‘helping’ the voter to ‘decide’ on whom to vote.   

Quite remarkably the contestants, who are aware of this critical aspect, go all-out to win the confidence of these influencers, who, incidentally, are neither popular in the media nor do they hold big positions in any organisation.

Political media analyst T.V. Rao said, “I have noticed in at least seven elections that these influencers make a big difference to the mindset of the neutral voters. The influencers are one among us. They generally visit the residences of neutral voters. While pointing out to them who was best suited to get their votes, these influencers dwell in detail about the issues pertaining to the area and other civic problems that needed immediate attention.”

P. Jayaraman, a Tamil origin resident of JJ Nagar colony, Yapral, is an influencer. He says, “I do not belong to any particular party. We try to zero in on a candidate who is trustworthy and is willing to solve our issues. Once we decide on a candidate, I, along with likeminded people, reach out to families and explain to them the importance of casting their vote and the candidate we have chosen as the best bet to address our issues.”

Ali Raza from Noor Khan bazar, Charminar, said “Yes, we do influence voters in the community and guide them about the candidate who is committed to honouring the promises made. I have been able to make people understand the importance of the vote. I meet people in social gatherings or in congregational meetings. At times, young voters reach out to me for advice.”

Edward Arvin, a voter from Goshamahal constituency, said “I have never been an active member of any political party. During municipal elections, I have seen influencers in action. I meet people, including friends and neighbours, and talk about which candidate was most suited to get their vote. Through me, subsequently, their issues are taken to the notice of the public representative.”