Aurangabad, Dec 29:
The code of conduct for elections in 618-gram panchayats of the district had come into effect from December 11. For smooth conduct of the elections, the administration concern will be spending Rs 3.02 crore from the Department of Rural Development accounts.
There are 865 GPs in the district, out of which, the elections are conducted in GPs that had completed their tenures. The last date to withdraw nomination is January 4. The aspirants can start their campaigning from January 5. The election will be held on January 15 (between 7.30 am to 5.30 pm), and the counting of votes will be held on January 18.
The administrative expense is made on printing of forms, ballot papers, transportation of EVMs, allowances of the employees deployed on election duty, meals of election personnel and other expenses ensuring the code of conduct is implemented effectively. The administration also bears the cost of stationery material and EVM batteries.
Last year, the election expense was to the tune of Rs 2 crore. Besides, the amount was disbursed in the middle of the election period. Hence the inquiry has to be made to know the remaining balance, said the sources.
The deputy collector (General Administration) Rita Maitrewar said," The administrative expense will be disbursed in instalments for the gram panchayat elections. A total of Rs 49,000 is expected to be granted as an administrative expense to each GP. We had received the first instalment of Rs 10,000."