Maharashtra SEC Launches Probe Over 'Erasable Ink' Allegations in BMC Polls
The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) has ordered a detailed investigation following a major controversy. Opposition leaders claimed that ink applied on voters' fingers during the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections could be wiped off easily. This prompted the SEC to announce that marker pens will not be used in the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections.
SEC Responds to Allegations
State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare stated that the probe will examine the quality of the ink and videos circulating on social media. The commission aims to determine whether the ink was applied properly during voting or in a mischievous manner. Waghmare confirmed that the SEC will revert to the traditional ink used in Lok Sabha and Assembly polls for the Zilla Parishad elections.
He explained that the ink takes about 10 to 12 seconds to dry after application. Once dry, it cannot be removed. Waghmare emphasized that this is the same ink used by the Election Commission of India. "If double voting takes place, action will be taken against the presiding officer of the polling booth," he warned.
Opposition Leaders Raise Concerns
The controversy erupted after Opposition leaders alleged that voters at several polling booths were marked with marker pens instead of indelible ink. They claimed the ink could be erased easily using acetone or sanitiser.
- Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray accused Waghmare of siding with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance. They demanded his suspension.
- Raj Thackeray, after casting his vote in Dadar, said, "People come out, wipe the ink, and go back inside to vote again." He alleged the system was being misused to benefit the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
- Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray expressed shock over reports of ink being washed away. He also demanded Waghmare's suspension.
- Maharashtra Congress Legislative Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar called the marker pen sub-standard. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Parab said the ink could be wiped away without sanitiser.
- Yuva Sena leader Sainath Durge claimed he could wash off the ink using Dettol. He warned about the possibility of bogus voting.
SEC Issues Warning and Clarification
The SEC refuted claims that the ink could be erased easily. However, it ordered a probe into the complaints. The commission warned of action against those creating confusion during the civic elections.
In a statement, the SEC said attempting to wipe off the ink applied on voters' fingers is an offence. "If any person is found attempting to vote again after wiping off the ink on their finger, appropriate legal action will be taken," it stated.
The commission added that even if someone removes the ink, they cannot vote again due to other safeguards. An official record of voting is maintained after each vote. "Merely wiping off the ink does not make it possible for a voter to cast vote again," the SEC clarified.
Ruling Alliance and Officials React
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dismissed the Opposition's concerns. He said they reflect a defeatist mindset. After voting in Nagpur, Fadnavis scratched his finger and asked, "I have also been marked with a marker, is it getting erased?" He suggested the Election Commission should look into any issues and use something else if needed.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde referred to the SEC's clarification. He said the same ink has been used for several years. This time, it was applied from a marker instead of directly from a bottle.
Shiv Sena minister Sanjay Shirsat acknowledged concerns. He said the marker ink is being wiped away in some places. This raises the possibility of bogus voting. He urged poll officials to remain vigilant.
BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde said poll officials should be held responsible if there is a problem with the ink. Leaders from ruling alliance partners Shiv Sena and the NCP also raised concerns. NCP leader Rupali Chakankar demanded a probe into complaints of ink removal and bogus voting.
Background and Orders
The SEC reiterated that marker pens have been used to apply ink during local body elections since 2011. This follows orders issued on November 19, 2011, and November 28, 2011. As per these orders, the ink must be applied clearly and rubbed three to four times on the nail and the skin above it.
Waghmare blamed voters for confusion over polling booth locations. He said voters should have checked their booth details and names online in advance. The SEC also warned that spreading misinformation on social media will lead to action.
The controversy has put the State Election Commission in the spotlight. It highlights the importance of maintaining trust in the voting process. The probe ordered by the SEC aims to address these concerns and ensure free and fair elections in Maharashtra.
