Elections Under Scrutiny: Ink Controversy Sparks Debate

Amid municipal elections in Maharashtra, BJP leader Ashish Shelar demanded strict action against individuals allegedly wiping ink off their fingers post-voting to facilitate bogus voting. The controversy, highlighted by viral videos, prompted political accusations involving opposition figures like Uddhav and Raj Thackeray and brought the Election Commission under scrutiny.

Amidst ongoing municipal elections in Maharashtra, BJP leader and state minister Ashish Shelar has called for stringent measures against individuals who allegedly remove the ink from their fingers post-voting. This controversy, exacerbated by viral videos suggesting that ink can be wiped off using solvents like acetone, has become a focal point on social media.

Shelar criticized the actions of individuals involved, asserting that removing ink may facilitate bogus voting. He urged for criminal charges against those responsible and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to maintain the integrity of the electoral process. He also suggested that the opposition's comments about the Election Commission were politically driven.

Shelar's remarks came amid claims by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and MNS's Raj Thackeray, who questioned the Election Commission's efficacy. Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare announced investigations into the viral videos, warning against spreading false narratives that could undermine electoral credibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)