The Symbol of Democracy

 The Indelible Ink 

The symbol of democracy, the ink mark on your finger, which determines the fate of our country. But what' s the history behind the Indelible ink ? Let's find out.

 

In 1951, the then president of India, Rajendra Prasad, approved the Representation of the People Act. Under Section 61 of the act, it is written that 'any individual with a mark of the ink on his or her thumb or any other finger represents the person who has casted its vote'. The main reason for this action is to control multiple-vote casting by an individual. The ink was first used in the 1962 general elections. Generally, the ink is applied on the index finger of the left hand, partially on the nail root and skin. The National Research Development Corporation was responsible for the development of the ink, whereas Mysore Paints and Varnish Ltd. (MVPL) are the only firm allowed to manufacture it. The Mysore-based firm also exports this ink to thirty countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Canada, Nepal, etc. The ink contains silver nitrate, which is responsible for rapid drying and a non-removable stain that can't be washed off; it can only be removed when new cells grow and replace the mark. Because of its non-removable nature, it was popularized as 'The Indelible Ink'. There was also a comic incident during the 1962 elections when brides refused to vote because the indelible stain of the ink might not look good on the wedding day. 

 

Apart from the ink, MVPL also manufactures enamels, primers, etc. They are the leading producer of sealing wax for India Post. The company receives its biggest orders during elections. The company delivered 26.55 lakh vials worth 55 crores to polling booths across the country during the 2024 general elections.

Thank You,

Sarthak P. Khode 😊