Understanding the Indelible Ink Used in Indian Elections
Current Election Atmosphere in India
India is currently experiencing an election season, with assembly elections taking place in five states. Voting has already occurred in some areas, while it is still pending in others. When voters arrive at polling booths, a blue ink is applied to their fingers. This ink is designed to last for an extended period, preventing individuals from voting multiple times.
Why Does the Voting Ink Last So Long?
Recently, a question has emerged on social media regarding the durability of the ink applied during voting. What makes this ink so persistent on the skin, and why does it eventually fade away? In this article, we will explore some fascinating facts about voting ink.
Exclusive Manufacturer of Voting Ink
In India, only one company is authorized to produce the ink used in elections: Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited. This company does not sell the voting ink in retail; it is exclusively available for purchase by the government or election-related agencies. Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited is the sole supplier of this ink across the country.
Since 1962, the company has held a special license granted by the National Research Development Corporation. This year, the Election Commission of India signed a contract with the company, in collaboration with the Ministry of Law and the National Physical Laboratory, to supply ink for elections. Additionally, this company supplies election ink to other countries as well.
Why Voting Ink Doesn't Wash Off Immediately
The blue voting ink is formulated using silver nitrate. When this ink comes into contact with the salts present in the body, it forms silver chloride. This compound remains attached to the skin when it dissolves in water. If the ink is exposed to water, it changes from blue to black, and it does not wash off easily.
It takes at least 72 hours for the ink to fade. During this time, the skin cells begin to shed, gradually removing the ink. This ink is also referred to as election ink or indelible ink. The practice of applying ink during elections was not established in India until the 1962 elections, implemented to prevent re-voting.