IVR poll calls spam voters in Trichy East amid high-stakes contest

Trichy: With Trichy East assembly constituency emerging as a high-profile battleground following the electoral debut of Vijay, voters are being inundated with Interactive Voice Response (IVR) survey calls.Over the past few days, residents across several localities said they have been receiving automated calls asking them to choose among key candidates and record grievances in the constituency. The calls prompt users to press 1 for AIADMK's G Rajasekaran, 2 for TVK's Vijay and 3 for DMK's Inigo Irudayaraj, with an option to repeat the menu. The calls have been reported from areas including Rockfort, Subramaniapuram and parts of Mannarpuram, with multiple members within the same household receiving them repeatedly. While some residents responded to the survey, others said they blocked the numbers after repeated calls. "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," said Surya Narayanan, a resident of Subramaniapuram. Several residents said they shared recordings of the calls on WhatsApp groups, warning others against responding. Many expressed concern that participating in such surveys could reveal their political preferences. "I blocked the number since the calls did not stop. It is strange that only voters in Trichy East are receiving these calls," said Pushpak Jain of Jaffer Shah Street. Political parties in the fray said they were unaware of the IVR-based surveys. Meanwhile, some residents reported receiving similar automated calls promoting the DMK's election manifesto, including promises of ₹8,000 coupons for home appliances. MSID:: 130040232 413 |