The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced that all eligible voters in Guwahati will be granted a paid holiday on April 9, the polling day for the Assam Assembly elections.
The directive is aimed at ensuring that every eligible voter in the city can participate in the democratic process without facing work-related constraints.
All eligible voters in Guwahati will receive a paid holiday on April 9, as mandated by the Election Commission. Employers must allow employees to vote without salary deduction, ensuring maximum voter participation in the Assam Assembly elections.
What This Means for Guwahati Employees
Under the guidelines, all employees working in:
- Private companies
- Shops and commercial establishments
- Industrial units
- Offices and businesses
must be given a paid holiday if they are eligible voters.
This also applies to:
- Daily wage workers
- Casual labourers
No deduction in wages is allowed for the leave taken on polling day.
Legal Provision Behind the Rule
The rule is enforced under Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which mandates employers to facilitate voting for their employees.
Employers in Guwahati who fail to comply may face legal penalties.
Relief for Outstation Workers
The ECI has also clarified that voters working outside their registered constituency will still be eligible for a paid holiday.
This is particularly relevant for Guwahati, where many residents:
- Work in different districts or states
- Travel back to vote in their home constituencies
Why This Matters for Guwahati
As a major urban and employment hub, Guwahati has a large working population.
The paid holiday ensures:
- Higher voter turnout
- Equal opportunity for all workers to vote
- Reduced workplace pressure on polling day
Polling and Results Schedule
- Polling in Assam (including Guwahati): April 9
- Counting of votes: May 4
Other states will vote on different dates, but the paid holiday applies to each respective polling day.
What Happens Next
Employers across Guwahati are expected to comply with the directive and allow employees to exercise their voting rights.
Voters are encouraged to plan their day and visit polling stations to cast their vote.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I get a paid holiday in Guwahati on April 9?
Yes, all eligible voters must be given a paid holiday on polling day.
2. Can employers deduct salary for taking leave to vote?
No, wage deduction is not allowed under the law.