• January to March 2025 Article ID: NSS9109 Impact Factor:8.05 Cite Score:25 Download: 5 DOI: https://doi.org/ View PDf

    Digital Democracy in Central India: Social Media Usage Trends of MP’s from Madhya Pradesh

      Dr. Priya Dave
        Assistant Professor (Political Science) I.K. College, Indore (M.P.)

Abstract: Digital democracy has emerged as a vital force reshaping political communication in India. This research paper investigates the patterns of social media usage among Members of Parliament (MPs) from Madhya Pradesh, a central Indian state with a diverse political and social landscape. By analyzing quantitative and qualitative data from official MP social media accounts, particularly Twitter and Facebook, the study highlights the extent of digital engagement, content typologies, and the role of social media in constituency outreach and policy communication. Findings suggest a growing but uneven adaptation of digital tools among MPs, with implications for democratic participation and governance.The findings indicate a growing but uneven adoption of digital strategies among MPs, shaped by factors such as party affiliation, age, urban-rural constituency profiles, and digital literacy. While some representatives have embraced social media to enhance transparency and citizen connection, others exhibit minimal or symbolic presence. The paper argues that while digital platforms offer significant potential to deepen democratic participation, structural disparities and inconsistent digital engagement practices limit their transformative impact. The study concludes by highlighting the need for policy-level interventions to promote inclusive digital political participation in emerging democracies like India.

Keywords: Digital Democracy, Social Media, MPs, Madhya Pradesh, Political Communication, Central India.