Rucsu polls: Candidates allege indelible ink fading
Several candidates in the Rajshahi University Central Students' Union (Rucsu) election have alleged that the indelible ink applied to voters' fingers is fading shortly after being marked.
Vice-president (VP) candidate Sheikh Nur Uddin Abir, nominated by the Chhatra Dal panel, said, "The ink was supposed to be indelible, but it's fading. This is concerning. However, the overall polling environment has been good so far, and we are fully confident of victory."
Chhatra Dal's assistant general secretary (AGS) candidate Zahin Biswas Esha echoed similar concerns, saying, "The ink applied before voting is coming off — it's really disappointing. We thought at least the indelible ink would not fade. This raises fears of fake voting."
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Shibir-backed Combined Students' Alliance's general secretary (GS) candidate Fahim Reza also described the issue as "unfortunate," adding that aside from minor mismanagements, such as initial entry restrictions with slips, the voting atmosphere remained festive.
Responding to the allegations, Rajshahi University Vice-Chancellor Professor Saleh Hasan Naqib said, "It seems this has become a universal talking point. Our election commission bought the best-quality ink after verification. Our officials also tested it — it didn't erase. If someone rubs it immediately after applying, some colour may fade, but once it dries, it cannot be wiped off."
Chief Election Commissioner Professor F Nazrul Islam said the ink was not a major security factor in the election process.
"We used the indelible ink mainly because it was also used in the Ducsu and Jucsu elections. If anyone rubs it with water or chemicals right after marking, it may fade. However, we have four layers of security, including verifying voters' names and photos with the voter list. So there is no risk of fake or multiple voting," he said.
