ECI raises expenditure limit for Candidates by 10 per cent

On Monday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced an increase in expenditure limit 10% for candidates contesting Assembly & Lok Sabha elections.

According to the letter issued today, this decision will also be applicable in ongoing & ensuing elections.

Giving information in this regard, Punjab State Chief Electoral Officer S Karuna Raju said that 2-member committee has also been constituted by the commission. He said that now onwards candidates contesting Lok Sabha elections in Punjab would be able to spend Rs 77 lakh instead of Rs 70 lakh, while candidates contesting Assembly elections will be able to spend Rs 30.80 lakh instead of Rs 28 lakh.

Raju further told that a committee comprises former IRS officer & DG Investigation Harish Kumar & Secretary-General & DG Expenditure Umesh Sinha, has been constituted to estimate the number of voters in each state & the expenditure incurred in that proportion. In addition, the committee will also evaluate the impact of rising inflation over the years on election expenses.

It will also seek objections from political parties & the general public.

The Chief Electoral Officer said that this committee will also analyse other possible related issues & submit its report within 120 days from its formation besides the aforementioned issues.

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