GVMC Council Convenes Final Budget Session Amid Controversy Over Corporator Incentives

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) is scheduled to hold what is anticipated to be its concluding budget meeting on February 4, as the current council's term is set to expire in March. This session, confirmed for attendance by YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) corporators, represents a critical administrative milestone in the final phase of the municipal governance cycle. The impending dissolution of the council lends significant weight to the budgetary deliberations, which will outline fiscal priorities for the transitional period. However, the proceedings have been overshadowed by substantial public and political scrutiny following the disclosure of a plan to distribute gift coupons valued at ₹25,000 to each corporator. This allocation, framed by authorities as a standard procedural token, has ignited criticism from opposition factions and civic groups, who allege potential misuse of public funds and question the timing and necessity of such expenditures during a lame-duck session. The controversy introduces a complex layer to the meeting's agenda, potentially influencing both the tone of the debate and public perception of the council's closing actions. Analysts will be monitoring the session for indications of fiscal discipline, political maneuvering ahead of the term's conclusion, and the council's responsiveness to the emerging ethical concerns.