Mumbai, Jan 15 (NationPress) As the voting process for the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections commenced on Thursday, the ink issue escalated into a significant political scandal. Opposition leaders contended that at numerous polling booths, voters were being marked with marker pens instead of the traditional indelible ink, claiming that this ink could be easily erased using acetone or sanitiser.

In response, State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare initiated an investigation into the Kores company's ink quality to determine if it adhered to the specifications outlined in the tender.

The SEC also decided against using the ink provided by Kores, opting instead for ink supplied by Mysore Ink.

The uproar regarding the supposedly erasable ink gained momentum after Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS leader Raj Thackeray accused Commissioner Waghmare of “openly siding” with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance and called for his suspension.

The State Election Commission, however, dismissed claims of the ink being easily removed, ordered a probe into the complaints, and cautioned against actions that could “create confusion” during the civic polls.

Following numerous allegations and counterclaims, SEC officials conducted a press briefing to clarify the situation. Commissioner Waghmare assured that the same ink, used since 2011, was being applied and that no new substances had been introduced. He emphasized that the ink dries in approximately 10 to 12 seconds, during which time the voter remains inside the polling booth. Once dried, it cannot be removed.

He noted that a false narrative was being propagated regarding the ink's removability. “Voters must not rub off the ink. If it is removed before drying, it is the voter's responsibility. Legal actions could be taken against such voters,” Waghmare stated.

He further assured that any videos circulating on social media would be examined, and those spreading misinformation would face consequences. Waghmare attributed confusion regarding polling booth locations to voters not checking their details online beforehand.

Thackeray initially raised concerns after voting in Dadar, stating, “People come out, wipe the ink, and return to vote again. Is this the development the government claims?”

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Thackeray alleged that the system was being manipulated to favor the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

As other opposition figures echoed concerns about the ink's removability, the SEC reiterated that marker pens have been used to apply ink since 2011.

After voting in Dadar, Thackeray claimed that the ink could be wiped off with sanitiser, facilitating repeated voting. He accused the government and election officials of ignoring such practices.

“The entire system is designed to ensure the victory of those in power, undermining free and fair elections,” he asserted.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray also expressed shock over reports of the ink being washed away, accusing Waghmare of favoring the ruling alliance and demanding action.

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar alleged that the marker pen used for inking voters was substandard and easily removable.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab and Yuva Sena leader Sainath Durge joined in, with Durge stating, “I voted in the morning and upon washing my hands with Dettol, the ink came off entirely. This raises serious concerns about potential bogus voting.”

Opposition parties reported similar complaints from voters and booth-level workers, urging the Election Commission to act promptly. “Even minor lapses can erode public trust in the electoral process,” an opposition leader commented.

The State Election Commission responded, warning that attempts to create confusion among voters regarding the indelible ink is a punishable offense. “Anyone found trying to vote again after wiping off the ink will face legal repercussions,” it emphasized.

SEC clarified that even if someone attempted to misrepresent their vote by removing the ink, they would still be unable to cast another vote due to existing safeguards. “An official record of voting is maintained, ensuring that wiping off the ink does not permit a repeat vote,” it stated.

According to SEC orders issued in November 2011, marker pens are used for applying ink, which must be distinctly applied by rubbing it three to four times on the nail and surrounding skin.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dismissed the allegations, claiming the opposition was preemptively seeking excuses for their impending defeat. “It is inappropriate to levy such allegations,” he stated after voting in Nagpur.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde referenced the SEC's statement, confirming that the same ink has been employed for years. Instead of using a bottle, it is now applied from a marker. He expressed confidence in the SEC’s vigilance against bogus voting.

BMC chief Bhushan Gagrani acknowledged the concerns, directing officials to use ink that adheres firmly to the skin to prevent removal.

Shiv Sena minister Sanjay Shirsat corroborated that the ink was indeed being wiped away, indicating a troubling precedent. “I think this is occurring for the first time. It is true that the marker ink is being wiped away, which raises concerns about potential bogus voting. Poll officials need to be vigilant,” he added.