The Election Commission (EC) has approved a budget of Tk 3,100 crore to organize the upcoming referendum and the 13th national parliamentary election. The decision was made during a commission meeting held on Wednesday, January 28, according to officials. Of the approved amount, Tk 1,200 crore has been allocated for election management, Tk 1,400 crore for law enforcement, and Tk 500 crore for referendum, postal ballots, and related expenses. The EC noted that allocations for these sectors may increase if necessary.

The previous 12th national election cost Tk 2,276 crore in total. EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed explained that the inclusion of referendum and postal ballot voting this time has naturally raised the overall expenditure. The 13th national parliamentary election is scheduled to take place on February 12.

The EC’s approval marks a significant increase in election spending compared to the previous cycle, reflecting expanded voting processes and security measures.