Singer Vishal Dadlani recently raised concerns regarding the use of indelible ink during the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. His worries came to light after he posted a video on Instagram showing how quickly the ink faded after he cast his vote, prompting the Maharashtra State Election Commission to clarify the matter.
In the video shared on Thursday night, Dadlani captured the fading ink, questioning its authenticity. “I have not tried to remove the ink. I regularly use sanitizer after shaking hands, but this is definitely not indelible ink,” he remarked, further expressing his willingness to make an official statement on the issue if necessary.
This post resonated with other voters, many of whom claimed they had encountered the same issue at polling booths, alleging that marker pens were being used in place of the standard indelible ink. One comment highlighted similar experiences in Nagpur, saying, “Earlier the ink used to last for weeks. Now it’s gone within a day!” Another voter shared their frustration about receiving a marker instead of ink, questioning the election officials and receiving a dismissive response encouraging them to file a complaint with the election commission.
Indelible ink plays a crucial role in the electoral process by preventing voters from casting multiple ballots, typically remaining visible for several days. However, the recent reports of its rapid disappearance have raised significant concerns about the integrity of the voting process.
On the same day, Dadlani also addressed the issue of low voter turnout at polling stations. Observing a nearly empty polling center, he expressed dismay at the lack of public participation, stating, “There is no trace of public here from what I can see. There are more officials inside than voters. It’s so shameful.” His remarks emphasized the need for collective responsibility in the democratic process, urging citizens to engage actively in civic duties.
Highlighting civic responsibility, he added, “This is your country, your city, your responsibility. Take care of it, or do whatever you are busy doing at home.”
As a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, Vishal Dadlani continues to serve as a judge on the reality show “Indian Idol 16,” along with fellow judges Shreya Ghoshal and Badshah. The show airs on Sony Entertainment Television (SET) and streams on SonyLIV, typically on Saturdays and Sundays at 8 PM.