The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday released Rs 450 million for printing of ballot papers and permanent ink.
According to sources, the ECP released Rs 300 million to the Printing Corporation for printing of ballot papers and Rs 150 million to the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR) for permanent ink.
The ECP also reprimanded senior officials of the PCSIR for not issuing tender for permanent ink despite the fact that only 18 days were left until elections.
The ECP said no further delays would be tolerated.
On the other hand, the International Foundation for Support Election Commission would provide 48,000 ballot boxes in addition to 300,000 ballot boxes the ECP already has.