Ink Row Hits Maharashtra Civic Body Polls: Election Body Orders Probe After Viral Videos Raise Alarm

Mumbai: Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare on Thursday said that an official inquiry has been ordered after complaints alleging that the indelible ink applied to voters’ fingers was being wiped off. 

What triggered the controversy?

The issue surfaced after several videos began circulating online, showing people allegedly removing the indelible ink applied during voting. 

The clips quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering concern among voters and political observers as polling continued in parts of Maharashtra.

Complaints soon reached the State Election Commission, forcing officials to step in and address the claims.

What did the Election Commissioner say?

Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare said an official inquiry has been ordered to examine the origin and intent behind the videos. 

Speaking to reporters, Waghmare dismissed claims that the ink could be removed using acetone or nail polish. He clarified that the indelible ink currently in use has been standard for over a decade. 

“The indelible ink used in the markers applied to voters’ fingers has been in use since 2011. The markers are manufactured by the same company and use the same ink composition. The ink takes 10 to 12 seconds to dry after application, and once it dries, it cannot be wiped off. Circulating videos on social media regarding the ink to create confusion among voters is unacceptable and may invite legal action,” he said.

Can the ink really be wiped off?

According to election officials, the ink requires about 10 to 12 seconds to dry after it is applied on a voter’s finger. Once dry, it cannot be wiped or washed off easily.

Waghmare stressed that misleading claims suggesting otherwise were incorrect and dangerous. 

“Videos being circulated to create confusion among voters are unacceptable,” he said.

Will action be taken against those spreading rumours?

The Election Commission has warned of strict legal action against anyone attempting to remove the ink deliberately or spread misinformation related to the voting process.

Officials said the inquiry will look into whether the videos were staged or circulated with the intention of undermining public confidence in the election process.

Why does this matter during polling?

Indelible ink is a key safeguard used to prevent multiple voting. Any doubt around its effectiveness can impact voter trust, especially during closely watched civic body polls.

Election authorities have urged voters not to believe unverified social media claims and rely only on official information.

Polling across Maharashtra continued amid tight security, with officials reiterating that the voting process remains secure and credible.