BJP flags ink mark on Bengal minister's granddaughter, TMC dismisses charge

The BJP on Wednesday alleged that West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim misused his position after his minor granddaughter was seen with an ink mark on her finger, as noticed on that of adults after voting, prompting the party to seek the ECs intervention.

The BJP on Wednesday alleged that West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim misused his position after his minor granddaughter was seen with an ink mark on her finger, as noticed on that of adults after voting, prompting the party to seek the EC's intervention. BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya raised the issue in a social media post, questioning whether the ink had been applied improperly and describing the incident as a matter that could undermine democratic values. ''Election Commission of India and the Chief Electoral Officer in West Bengal must take note of this violation and hold those responsible to account,'' Malviya said in his post. Hakim, also the Kolkata Mayor, rejected the charge and said the issue was being blown out of proportion for political reasons. ''She is my granddaughter, and the ink was put on the finger of her right hand just for fun when she accompanied us to the polling booth this morning. I do not want to give any importance to such an allegation. This is nothing but a reflection of the narrow-mindedness of these people,'' Hakim told PTI. The EC has not yet commented on the BJP's allegation. The second and final phase of the West Bengal assembly elections was held on Wednesday, and votes will be counted on May 4.