Dhaka, Jan. 28 -- The Election Commission (EC) has estimated the overall expenditures for the upcoming referendum and the 13th national parliamentary election at some Tk 3,100 crore.

The Commission on Wednesday approved the budget, estimating the total cost of Tk 3,100 crore to conduct the referendum and general election simultaneously on February 12 next, said EC officials.

Of the total cost, Tk 1,200 crore has been earmarked for election management and operational expenses, while Tk 1,400 crore has been allocated for deployment of law enforcement agencies.

Another Tk 500 crore has been set aside for costs related to the referendum, postal ballots and other ancillary purposes.

Officials, however, said the allocation might be increase...