Election Commission of India has mandated paid holiday for employees on polling day without wage deduction

The Election Commission of India in a Circular bearing No. 78/EPS/2024 dated 16.03.2024 has instructed concerned authorities regarding General Election to Lok Sabha 2024 and Bye-elections to Assembly. It highlights Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which mandates a paid holiday for employees on the day of polling, with no deduction in wages. If Employers commit any contravention, they shall face fine, which may be extended to five hundred rupees.