Rate card released by Election Commission for Assembly elections

• Candidates can spend up to Rs 40 lakh

• Exceeding this limit will lead to disciplinary action for violation of the code of conduct

Mumbai – The Election Commission has issued a comprehensive rate card for various campaign expenses in the upcoming Assembly elections. Taking inflation into account, candidates are now permitted to spend up to Rs 40 lakh, an increase from the previous cap of Rs 28 lakh. Exceeding this limit will be considered a code of conduct violation, subjecting candidates to potential disciplinary action. The approved expenditures cover meetings, rallies, advertising materials, and vehicle use.

Vehicle rates : Campaign vehicle rates are set as follows : two-wheelers at Rs 1,100 per day, rickshaws at Rs 1,300, light vehicles at Rs 3,300, medium vehicles at Rs 3,900, and premium vehicles at Rs 5,100.

Rates for bands and decorations : A 20-person band at Rs 1,000 per day; a 5-member Powada troupe at Rs 5,000; a 3-member Halgi group at Rs 1,500; and a 20-member cymbal group at Rs 10,000. Shing instrument players at Rs 300 per person, and a four-person banjo group for 3-4 hours at Rs 2,500. Rs 220 for a large bouquet, Rs 180 for a medium bouquet, and Rs 100 for a small one, while garlands Rs 325 for a large size, Rs 235 for medium, and Rs 125 for small.

Rates for food and refreshments : The rate card includes tea at Rs 8, coffee at Rs 12, a pack of biscuits at Rs 10, soft drinks at Rs 20, and Kokum sherbet, Lassi, Poha, Upma, and Sheera each at Rs 15. Vada pav is priced at Rs 10, Idli at Rs 25, Misal at Rs 49, Samosa at Rs 15, vegetarian meals at Rs 70, and non-vegetarian meals at Rs 120. The complete rate list includes a total of 252 items for campaign expenses.