Trichy East Constituency Sees Surge in Automated IVR Survey Calls
Trichy East assembly constituency has become a high-profile electoral battleground following the political debut of actor Vijay, leading to a wave of Interactive Voice Response (IVR) survey calls targeting voters. Over recent days, residents across multiple localities have reported receiving automated calls that prompt them to participate in opinion polls related to the upcoming election.
Details of the IVR Survey Calls
The automated calls present voters with a menu of options, asking them to press specific numbers to indicate support for key candidates. According to reports, the options include:
- Press 1 for AIADMK candidate G Rajasekaran
- Press 2 for TVK candidate Vijay
- Press 3 for DMK candidate Inigo Irudayaraj
An option to repeat the menu is also provided. These calls have been particularly prevalent in areas such as Rockfort, Subramaniapuram, and parts of Mannarpuram, with many households experiencing repeated calls to multiple family members.
Voter Reactions and Concerns
While some residents engaged with the survey, others expressed frustration and took action to block the numbers. Surya Narayanan, a resident of Subramaniapuram, shared his experience: "The call appeared to be from a mobile number, so I answered, but was surprised to realise it was an opinion poll ahead of the election. My mother also received the same call."
Many voters have raised privacy concerns, fearing that participation could reveal their political preferences. Pushpak Jain of Jaffer Shah Street noted: "I blocked the number since the calls did not stop. It is strange that only voters in Trichy East are receiving these calls." Some residents have even shared recordings of the calls on WhatsApp groups to warn others against responding.
Political Parties and Additional Automated Calls
Political parties involved in the election have stated they are unaware of the IVR-based surveys. In a related development, some residents reported receiving similar automated calls promoting the DMK's election manifesto, which includes promises such as ₹8,000 coupons for home appliances. This adds to the growing concern over the use of automated communication in the electoral process.
The situation highlights the increasing role of technology in political campaigning, raising questions about voter privacy and the ethics of automated outreach in sensitive electoral contexts.
