SEC Addresses Voting Ink Controversy in BMC Polls
State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare has responded to recent allegations about voting ink during the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. In an interview, he clarified the commission's stance on the issue.
Ink Reliability and Historical Use
The State Election Commission continues to use the same type of marker pens introduced in 2012 for local body elections. No new substances have been added to the ink formula since then.
Commissioner Waghmare explained that the decision to adopt marker pens was made in 2011. The procurement process followed competitive tendering to finalize the rate contract.
The ink requires about 10 to 12 seconds to dry completely after application. During this brief period, voters remain inside the polling booth. Once dried, the ink becomes permanent and cannot be removed.
This is the identical ink formula used by the Election Commission of India for national elections. Voters bear responsibility for not rubbing the ink off before it dries properly.
Probe into Allegations and Future Changes
The commission has initiated an investigation into claims about sub-standard ink in marker pens. They will obtain reports from the pen manufacturing company regarding the ink composition.
The Election Commission of India has established a fixed chemical formula for voting ink. The State Election Commission expects all pens to contain ink matching this prescribed formula.
Random sampling of pens will be conducted to verify compliance. Additionally, the commission has decided to discontinue marker pen use for upcoming Zilla Parishad elections. Traditional ink will replace marker pens for these polls.
Examining Viral Videos and Distribution Details
The investigation will also examine whether videos showing ink removal depict genuine polling booth applications. Authorities will determine if any mischievous acts occurred where ink was applied outside polling stations specifically for video creation.
Regarding distribution, the commission follows a standard practice of providing three marker pens to each polling booth. This ensures adequate supply for all voters throughout election day.
Duplicate Voting Concerns Addressed
Commissioner Waghmare firmly stated that wiping off ink cannot enable duplicate voting. The system registers voters immediately after they cast their ballots, making second voting impossible.
Polling authorities have received instructions to implement appropriate measures preventing any attempts at electoral malpractice. The commission maintains confidence in the integrity of their voting procedures.
