Section Article

The Role of Digital Platforms in Shaping Political Narratives Post-Pandemic
Author(s): Mohit Chhabra

Abstract
The post-pandemic era has witnessed a surge in the use of digital platforms to influence political discourse and mobilize public opinion. This study investigates how political actors activists and grassroots movements have leveraged social media platforms like Twitter Facebook and WhatsApp to shape narratives in a time of global uncertainty. Through content analysis of political campaigns hashtags and viral posts the research examines the dual role of these platforms as tools for democratic engagement and vehicles for misinformation. The findings reveal that while digital platforms have democratized access to political participation they have also intensified polarization by creating echo chambers and spreading divisive content. Case studies from India the United States and Brazil illustrate how governments and opposition parties have utilized these tools to promote agendas counter criticism and engage with citizens. The research also explores the ethical challenges posed by algorithmic biases fake news and censorship calling for greater accountability from tech companies. This study contributes to the broader understanding of digital communication’s evolving role in shaping political landscapes.