Rs 115 crore spent on vehicles, tents, and barricades during 2024 Elections in Odisha

The Odisha government incurred an expenditure of Rs 115.94 crore during the 2024 elections for various logistical arrangements, including vehicles, tents, sound systems, barricades, and other election-related management.

This information was revealed by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi in a written response to a question raised by BJD MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain in the Odisha Assembly on Monday.

According to the official data, a major portion of the expenditure—Rs 80.93 crore was spent solely on vehicles used during the entire election process. Additionally, the cost of tents, sound systems, and barricades amounted to Rs 35.01 crore.

The disclosure has sparked discussions in the Assembly regarding the financial burden of election management and the need for cost-effective measures. 

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi informed the Odisha Assembly regarding the status of vacancies. According to the data presented, 67 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and 69 Indian Police Service (IPS) positions are currently vacant in Odisha.