Indelible ink mark on voter's forefinger to be bigger

New Delhi: Now the proof that you have voted is set to get bigger and bolder. Amid complaints that the indelible or 'voter' ink is not being applied properly by poll officials, Election Commission has issued orders saying the ink should be applied using a brush specifically provided for the purpose.

The recent order makes it clear that the ink 'will be applied on voter's finger with the help of brush from top of the nail to the bottom of the first joint of the left forefinger'.

Representational pic

Use of brush will ensure that besides being bigger, the ink mark will also be bolder and more prominent. The EC said the polling official in-charge of the 'control unit' (of electronic voting machine) "shall ensure that mark of the indelible ink is intact on the finger of electors, before pressing the ballot button of control unit".

The poll watchdog said it is issuing the order as during the recent elections, certain reports regarding "improper application" of indelible ink have been received by the Commission. "A copy of this instruction may be sent to all district election officers and returning officers. This instruction may also be brought to the notice of all presiding officers and polling officers during trainings for strict compliance. A copy of this instruction shall be kept in the kit of presiding officer given to him while leaving for poll duty," the Commission said.

There have been complaints that poll officials use match sticks instead of a brush to apply ink. The ink is barely visible and often leads to allegations that people have tried to remove it in a bid to cast vote again. The EC has also asked the Managing Director of Mysore Paints and Varnish Ltd to ensure supply of brushes along with the indelible ink supplied to states and UTs with 'immediate effect'.