EC fixes rates of 112 items

Deepkamal Kaur

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Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, December 8

Before deciding on sweets to be served during rallies after the model code of conduct is implemented, candidates will have to be meticulous in their planning their expenditure.

The expenditure limit for every candidate is Rs 28 lakh.

For each kg of burfi served, the expenditure team of the Election Commission (EC) will add a cost of Rs 250 to the expenditure of the candidate, while ladoos, rasgullas and gulab jamuns of the same weight will cost Rs120. Jalebis will cost Rs 140 per kg.

“This time, the election expenditure list has prepared a list of 112 items against 34 till previous years. It has been decided that there will be one standardised, common rate list for all districts of Punjab,” said Harbhupinder Nanda, Divisional Commissioner, Jalandhar, and chairman of a state committee set up by the EC.

The list was today sent to the CEO, Punjab, for a final consideration. Deputy Commissioners and representatives of parties convened a meeting in Jalandhar last evening and finalised the rates.

The rate list is so elaborate that there are separate charges for hiring singers depending upon their popularity. A “dhadi jatha” will cost Rs 2,100 per function, while a local singer will cost between Rs 20,000 and Rs 35,000, and a renowned singer, Rs1.5 lakh or more.

A plate of samosa with sauce will cost Rs10 and that with channa, Rs15.

Rentals for room have separate categories — single-bed room with AC will cost Rs 900 and without AC, Rs 500. A double-bed room with AC will be available for Rs 1,200 and without AC, for Rs 800. A deluxe room with AC will cost Rs 2,500.

Items that have included for the first time include milk, soft drink, rent for a tea steel container, a water camper, a jug, a bucket, disposable cups, plates and bowl, staircase leading to the stage, labour for laying chairs and rental for election office per sq m in urban or rural areas.

“Flying squads and video surveillance teams will take note of number of items used in a rally. They will be calculating the expenditure for every rally,” Nanda added.