In an unprecedented move, the Election Commission of India (ECI) allowed the use of indelible ink, used to mark voters after they cast their ballot, on persons instructed to be home quarantined by health authorities.
In a letter sent to the health secretary 25 March, the ECI said, “Due to extraordinary circumstances because of COVID-19 pandemic, the commission has reviewed its decision suo-moto and it is decided to allow the usage of Indelible Ink on persons for stamping for home quarantine by health authorities…”
It has, though, instructed health authorities to not use the ink on the left hand of any individual. According to the Conduct of Election rules, the left forefinger of voters is marked with indelible ink to ensure the principle of ‘one person, one vote’. “Ministry may standardize the mark and the location on the body where the mark is to be applied so that it does not come in the way of the conduct of elections anywhere in the country,” the letter stated. The ECI has further directed the health ministry to maintain a log of those being marked.
0 Comments