Amid concerns of voters erasing ink post-voting, the Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) emphasized that such actions could lead to confusion and are considered serious misconduct. The SEC clarified that erasing the ink does not allow for a second vote due to existing preventive measures in place. Officials have been instructed to be vigilant in preventing such incidents.
The SEC issued directives in 2011, mandating the use of marker pens for inking voters’ fingers during elections. The ink application must leave a distinct mark, with specific instructions on how to apply it using the marker pens. Citizens are urged not to indulge in the malpractice of removing the ink post-voting.
Following complaints from political parties about ink erasure, including the Shiv Sena, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, and Congress, the SEC intervened to address the issue. Political leaders accused the ruling alliance of electoral fraud, with MNS chief Raj Thackeray alleging attempts to manipulate the election outcome through fraudulent means.
In response to the allegations, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the electoral process, suggesting enhanced transparency measures. Fadnavis highlighted that marker pens have been used previously and recommended potential alternatives like oil paint for marking voters to address any doubts or concerns.
