Women Commission Chairperson Files Complaint Over Alleged Bogus Voting in Pune
Rupali Chakankar, the chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, has filed a formal complaint with the Election Commission. She reported an alleged bogus voting attempt at a polling center in Pune city. The incident occurred in ward number 34 during recent civic elections.
Ink Erasure Incident at Polling Booth
Chakankar, who also serves as a leader of the Nationalist Congress Party led by Ajit Pawar, addressed the media on Thursday. She stated that party workers caught some individuals erasing ink marks from their fingers. This happened at the Narayanrao Sanas school polling booth in the Wadgaon Dhayari area.
The individuals used an unknown liquid to remove the indelible ink. Chakankar showed a video of the incident to journalists. In the footage, a man applies the liquid to women's fingers at the polling station.
Chakankar claimed that neither the man nor the women in the video are registered voters from that area. She expressed suspicion that they intended to vote again after removing the ink. "This appears highly suspicious," she remarked.
Immediate Action and Police Involvement
Upon receiving information from party workers, Chakankar personally visited the spot. She immediately contacted police officials and election officers to investigate the matter. "If these women are genuine voters, why would they need liquid to erase the ink?" she questioned during her statement.
The complaint filed with the Election Commission requests a thorough inquiry. It also urges authorities to prevent similar incidents in future elections.
Peaceful Voting Reported in Other Areas
Meanwhile, voting for the civic elections proceeded peacefully across Pune on Thursday. Ranjan Kumar Sharma, Joint Commissioner of Pune City Police, confirmed that no major disturbances occurred during polling.
Sharma acknowledged some complaints about cash distribution. Election commission flying squads are currently investigating these allegations.
In Pimpri Chinchwad, voting also remained calm and orderly. Additional Commissioner of Police Sarang Awad stated that law and order were properly maintained throughout the election process. Police authorities reported successful management of the polling arrangements.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about electoral integrity even as officials emphasize overall peaceful conduct during these important local elections.
