As the Punjab assembly elections, due in February next year, draw closer, residents of Bathinda have started receiving an increasing number of automated political survey calls on their phones. Many people report receiving these computerised calls daily, which ask them to press a number corresponding to a political party: one for Congress, two for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), three for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), four for the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and five for any other party.
Residents Express Irritation Over Frequent Calls
While such surveys are common ahead of elections, some residents say the frequency has become a headache. Esha Challana, a housewife, said, “I get at least two to three such phone calls every day. The elections are due in February, but the frequency of these calls has already started irritating people like me. Even if the elections are held in November, as some politicians are claiming, there is still plenty of time left.”
Similar views were expressed by Gaurav Garg, a young resident, and Gurjant Singh, an elderly farmer. “The political parties have started preparing for the elections, and with every passing day, the number of survey calls seems to be increasing,” they said.
Purpose of Political Surveys
Political observers note that such surveys are often conducted by parties and agencies to gauge public sentiment, identify key issues, and assess the popularity of candidates and political parties ahead of elections. The data collected helps shape campaign strategies and resource allocation.
Although the calls are automated, they reflect an intensifying political environment in Punjab, where major parties including Congress, AAP, BJP, and SAD are vying for voter support. The next state election is scheduled for February 2027, but speculation of an early poll has added urgency to campaign activities.
