In recent years, use of social media and digital mobilisation by civil society has emerged as a powerful form of pressure politics. Examine its impact on policymaking and democratic accountability.

Impact of social media and digital mobilisation on policy making and democratic accountability Policy Making: Positive: 1) Participatory policy making → Direct communication with law makers 2) Social Media as a societal Mirror → Highlights needs Negative: 1) Undue influence of affluent section 2) Threat/ manipulation Form laws. 3) Data based governance → CGOA Media polls for understanding sentiments 4) Citizen centric policy Democratic Accountability Positive: 1) Vote to unheard communities such as Tribals, Trans genders 2) Easy mobilization and participatory governance 3) Transparency through regular data sharing Negative: 1) Threat of manipulation by political parties 2) Surveillance of civil society groups Raises Issues 3) Digital Divide → Urban (Rural, Men, Women)

— Jayant Garg · AIR 64