Is There a Paid Holiday for Bihar Electors Voting on Nov 6, 11?
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Synopsis
On October 18, the Election Commission of India announced a paid holiday for voters during the Bihar Assembly elections, emphasizing the importance of allowing all electors to vote without penalty. Employers are warned against wage deductions for absences on polling days, ensuring everyone can exercise their democratic rights.
Key Takeaways
- Paid holiday announced for Bihar Assembly election voters.
- Employers face penalties for wage deductions.
- All eligible voters, including casual workers, are entitled to this holiday.
- Proactive measures against electoral malpractice are in place.
- By-elections also scheduled for November 11.
New Delhi, Oct 18 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) declared a paid holiday for employed voters on the polling days for the Bihar Assembly elections. Employers were cautioned about penalties for deducting wages for absences on November 6 and 11.
According to a circular from the ECI, the State governments have been instructed to ensure strict adherence to these regulations to allow all voters to exercise their right to vote freely and conveniently.
The ECI's timetable includes by-elections across eight Assembly Constituencies in seven states on November 11.
Deputy Director of the ECI, P. Pawan, stated in the circular, “As per Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, everyone employed in any business, trade, or establishment and entitled to vote must be granted a paid holiday on polling day.”
“No wage deductions can be made for this paid holiday. Employers violating this rule face fines. All daily wage and casual workers are also entitled to this paid holiday,” the statement emphasized.
The Commission clarified that voters (including casual and daily wage workers) employed in industrial or commercial establishments outside their constituency, yet registered to vote in a polling constituency, are entitled to a paid holiday to facilitate voting.
On Friday, the ECI gathered heads of various enforcement and security agencies to enhance vigilance against the illicit movement of cash, drugs, liquor, and other inducements during the Bihar election campaign.
The Multi-Departmental Committee on Election Intelligence (MDCEI) met at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi.
The Commission underscored the necessity for proactive surveillance and preventative measures to combat electoral malpractice that could sway voter behavior.
Point of View
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the paid holiday announced for Bihar electors?
The paid holiday allows employed voters to participate in the elections without financial penalties, promoting higher voter turnout and strengthening democracy.
Are employers allowed to deduct wages for absence on polling days?
No, employers are prohibited from deducting wages for the days designated as paid holidays for voting.
Who is entitled to the paid holiday?
All employed persons, including daily wage and casual workers, registered to vote in the Bihar Assembly elections are entitled to the paid holiday.
What actions are taken against employers who violate this rule?
Employers who contravene the provisions face fines and penalties for wage deductions related to the paid holiday.
What additional measures are being taken to ensure fair elections?
The ECI is enhancing surveillance to monitor against illicit inducements during the election campaign, ensuring a fair electoral process.
