The Government of Assam has announced paid holidays for workers across various sectors on the crucial dates corresponding to the three phases of the upcoming General Election to the Lok Sabha in 2024. A notification issued by Ballepu Kalyan Chakravarthy, Principal Secretary to the Labour Welfare Department, on April 2 outlined the arrangements.
According to the notification, paid holidays will be observed on April 19, April 26, and May 7, coinciding with the poll dates in Assam for the 17th Lok Sabha elections. This provision encompasses factories, plantations (including tea plantations), shops and commercial establishments, public entertainment or amusement establishments, contractors’ establishments, farms, industries, workshops, commercial and business establishments, and banking institutions.
The paid holiday will enable registered voters in the polling constituency to exercise their franchise, even if they are employed outside the constituency. This move is in compliance with Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Additionally, voters from neighboring states working in adjoining districts of Assam will also be entitled to paid holidays on the day of polling in their respective states.
In the event of a re-poll, the paid holiday provision will continue to apply, as per directives from the Election Department.
The decision aims to facilitate the smooth conduct of the democratic exercise by ensuring that employees across various sectors can participate in the electoral process without compromising their livelihood.
The General Election to the Lok Sabha in Assam will be held in three phases, commencing on April 19, followed by subsequent phases on April 26 and May 7. The announcement of paid holidays underscores the state government’s commitment to upholding the democratic rights of its citizens and ensuring maximum voter participation.
Political parties and civil society organizations have welcomed the move, emphasizing the importance of enabling all eligible voters to exercise their constitutional right without facing any impediments due to their employment obligations.