Nagpur Voters Raise Alarm Over Fading Ink in Civic Polls
Voters and political parties in Nagpur have lodged complaints about the use of marker pens during the Nagpur Municipal Corporation elections. Many people reported that the indelible ink mark faded unusually fast. This situation has sparked serious concerns about potential bogus or double voting.
Contrast with Previous Elections
The issue gains importance because recent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections used the traditional brush-and-ink method. Civic polls, however, adopted the marker-based application. This difference has led to widespread dissatisfaction among the electorate.
Chief Minister's Response
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the controversy directly. He stated that the Election Commission made the decision on ink application. Fadnavis mentioned that marker pens were used in earlier elections too.
"If there are objections, the EC should examine them," he said. The chief minister added that some people were already preparing excuses ahead of the election results.
When questioned again, Fadnavis showed his inked finger to reporters. He attempted to rub it off in front of them. "See, I am trying to wipe it off in front of you. Is it coming off?" he asked. Fadnavis emphasized that while objections can be examined, repeatedly questioning democratic institutions over every issue was unwarranted.
Voter Experiences Across Wards
Several voters across different wards reported similar problems. The ink mark on their fingers faded or rubbed off after routine activities like washing hands or cooking.
Well-known chartered accountant Kailash Jogani shared his experience. He cast his vote around 11:30 am at a polling station in Pande Layout. Jogani noted that two similar names appeared on the voters' list at his booth.
"An undertaking was taken from me, and I was allowed to vote. The ink was applied using a marker. After washing my hands before lunch, I noticed the mark faded significantly," said Jogani. He added that indelible ink is a crucial part of the electoral process and usually lasts for several days.
Jogani later shared his experience on social media platforms. He stated it is not just about preventing double-voting. "Such lapses should not occur in an electoral process. Ink is meant to prevent repeat voting, and it should not fade so easily. The integrity of the democratic process should be maintained," he emphasized.
Similar Complaints Surface Online
Other Nagpur residents reported identical issues through online channels. Chartered accountant Atul Modani tweeted that the ink mark on his finger faded rapidly. He mentioned that he could wipe it off while testing it.
Another Nagpur resident, Vinayak Kulkarni, voted from Ward 37 around 9:30 am. By afternoon, he found the ink had reduced to a faint stain. This happened despite using only regular soap and shampoo. "The speed at which it faded was surprising," Kulkarni said.
Archana, a voter from Ward 18, realized the ink mark disappeared while serving food. She had washed her hands after voting earlier in the day.
State Election Commission's Clarification
The State Election Commission released a written statement on polling day. They clarified that wiping off the ink applied on a voter's finger does not enable repeat voting.
"Once a voter casts a vote, a record is maintained, and the voter can't vote again, even if the ink mark is removed. Any attempt to wipe off the ink to create confusion amounts to malpractice and will invite legal action," the commission stated.
SEC officials were instructed to remain vigilant to prevent any such attempts. The commission also pointed out that using marker pens for applying indelible ink is not a new practice.
Historical Context of Marker Use
SEC highlighted that orders approving the use of marker pens in local self-government elections were issued on November 19, 2011, and November 28 of the same year. According to these orders, the ink must be applied with a marker by rubbing it three to four times on the nail and the skin above it. This procedure ensures the mark is clearly visible to election officials.
The controversy continues to generate discussion among voters and political observers in Nagpur. Many citizens express hope that future elections will address these technical concerns to maintain public trust in the democratic process.
