BJP Claims Congress Social Media Messaging Influenced by Foreign Sources

The political confrontation between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress escalated further as the ruling party alleged that several Congress-linked accounts on X (formerly Twitter) are influenced by “foreign narrative-setters.” The BJP claimed that coordinated messaging coming from outside India is shaping the Congress party’s online discourse, raising concerns about the alleged involvement of international actors in domestic political communication.

According to BJP spokespersons, a pattern of synchronized posts, hashtags, and talking points emerging from certain overseas profiles suggests deliberate attempts to influence public perception ahead of key political events. They argue that these foreign-based accounts often amplify content critical of the government, which is later echoed by domestic Congress accounts, thereby creating what the BJP describes as an “imported narrative ecosystem.”

The BJP asserts that some of these accounts originate from regions known for hosting political advocacy groups and think tanks that have historically taken critical positions on India’s internal policies. While the party did not present a detailed list publicly, it claims to have compiled internal documentation showing how particular foreign handles frequently interact with Congress leaders, official accounts, and affiliated digital volunteers.

The Congress has rejected these accusations outright, calling them a diversionary tactic by the BJP. Party representatives argue that the ruling party routinely attempts to delegitimise dissent by associating it with foreign interference. They maintain that Congress supporters whether in India or abroad—engage in political conversations voluntarily and organically, without any centralised coordination.

Digital rights experts note that similar accusations have emerged globally during election cycles, where ruling parties often accuse opponents of benefiting from foreign influence. However, they also acknowledge that cross-border political engagement through social media has become increasingly common, especially among Indian diaspora communities who actively follow and participate in national debates.

Despite the heated exchange, no official complaint has yet been filed with the Election Commission or cybersecurity agencies, though BJP leaders hinted that they may take the matter forward if the alleged patterns persist. They argue that the integrity of India’s digital political space must be protected from what they term “narrative outsourcing.”

Opposition parties, meanwhile, accuse the BJP of attempting to police social media conversations and create an atmosphere of suspicion around any criticism of the government. They point out that the BJP itself runs extensive global outreach programs and maintains close connections with diaspora-based influencer networks, making the party’s allegations “hypocritical.”

Analysts suggest that this controversy is part of a larger battle over narrative dominance on social media platforms, which have become central to political campaigning. With upcoming elections drawing near, both major national parties are increasingly sensitive to accusations of manipulation, misinformation, and foreign influence.

As the debate intensifies, questions remain about whether the government will launch any formal inquiry into the alleged foreign links. For now, the BJP continues to press its claim that Congress narratives are being shaped from abroad, while the Congress accuses the ruling party of weaponising suspicion to suppress political opposition.