Pune Voters Express Concerns Over Marker Ink and Electoral Roll Errors During Civic Polls

Pune, 15th January 2026: The ongoing Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) elections have sparked voter apprehensions following reports that marker pens, rather than the traditional indelible ink, were used to mark voters’ fingers—a first in the city’s electoral history. The move, implemented without prior notification from the Election Commission (EC), has raised questions about transparency and preparedness in the polling process.

Residents, particularly from the Wanowrie area, voiced concerns that the easily removable ink could allow double voting.

“If the mark indicating a cast vote can be wiped off, how will authorities prevent misuse?” one voter asked, reflecting widespread unease about the reliability of the new system. Previously, indelible ink remained visible for more than two weeks, serving as a safeguard against multiple voting.

Adding to the confusion were errors in electoral rolls and ward allocations. Several households reported that family members were assigned to different polling stations, while others noticed their names appearing in multiple wards. Such discrepancies, combined with the removable ink, have led to fears that the credibility of the election could be compromised.

Some voters suggested that the sudden replacement of indelible ink appeared deliberate, questioning why a long-standing safeguard had been discontinued without public notice. Others highlighted broader procedural concerns, stating that unexpected changes had eroded confidence in the fairness of the civic polls.

The Election Commission has now issued clarification regarding the rationale for using marker pens. Officials reassured voters that all measures were in place to prevent multiple voting and safeguard electoral integrity.