Election Commission Raises Candidate Expenditure Limit for 2024 Lok Sabha Polls, Check Details
Sumit Singh & Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 30th March 2024: In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections in 2024, the Election Commission has announced revised expenditure limits for candidates, marking a substantial increase from previous years. Candidates are now permitted to spend up to 95 lakhs, representing a significant jump of 20 lakhs compared to the previous election cycle. This adjustment aims to accommodate the evolving dynamics of election campaigning and ensure a level playing field for all contenders.
The Election Department has unveiled detailed guidelines outlining permissible expenditure categories and corresponding rates. Notably, expenditure rates have surged by 12 to 15 percent compared to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. For instance, the cost of vegetarian meals has been raised to Rs. 160 from Rs. 112, while a sumptuous non-veg Thali is now priced at Rs. 250.
Campaigning during elections necessitates extensive mobilization of resources, including a sizable workforce to canvass constituencies. Candidates bear all expenses incurred by their campaign teams, ranging from breakfast provisions to meals. To curry favor with voters, candidates often allocate significant funds towards providing food during campaign rallies.
The imposition of expenditure limits aims to curb excessive spending and prevent elections from becoming mere contests of financial prowess. Candidates are required to meticulously document their expenditures and submit daily reports to the Election Department in accordance with prescribed formats. These expenditure limits are determined through consultations with representatives of various political parties.
The revised expenditure limits also encompass costs associated with conducting campaign meetings. Rates have been standardized for essential equipment and services, such as generators, sound systems, lighting fixtures, and audio-visual equipment. For instance, a 125 KV generator utilized for public meetings is priced at Rs. 10,000 for 5 hours, while small and large sound systems are priced at Rs. 2,400 and Rs. 3,500, respectively.
To ensure compliance with expenditure regulations, stringent monitoring mechanisms have been put in place. Special teams will oversee expenditure records and verify reported expenses. Any discrepancies or under-reporting will be swiftly addressed through notices and corrective actions. Moreover, comprehensive video documentation of campaign meetings will be undertaken to facilitate transparent scrutiny.
As the nation gears up for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, the Election Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering fair and transparent electoral practices, thereby upholding the democratic ideals of the nation.
