India recently concluded the world’s largest election, with over 640 million votes counted. During the election, various parties and factions utilized artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, providing valuable lessons for the rest of the world. The campaigns incorporated deepfake impersonations of candidates, celebrities, and even deceased politicians, reaching millions of Indian voters. Despite concerns about misinformation, AI was mostly used constructively to connect with voters. Political parties spent $50 million on authorized AI-generated content for targeted communication. AI tools were also used to translate speeches into different languages, making Modi’s personality more accessible to voters across India. However, AI was also used for online trolling and meme wars, indicating potential adversarial uses. The Indian experience showcases the positive role AI can play in participatory democracy, offering valuable lessons for democracies worldwide.
