New Delhi – The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered that all employed voters in Bihar receive a paid holiday on the two voting days, November 6 and 11, for the state’s Assembly elections. The commission also warned employers that cutting wages for employees who miss work to vote will attract a fine.
The rule, backed by Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, says any worker – whether a full‑time employee, daily‑wage or casual labourer – who is entitled to vote must have the day off without loss of pay. The directive covers those working in industrial or commercial premises outside their home constituency but registered as voters in a polling area.
ECI said it has instructed state governments to issue clear instructions to employers and to ensure that all voters can exercise their franchise freely and without hassle. “No deduction of wages may be made on account of such a paid holiday,” the commission wrote, adding that any employer who ignores the rule will be fined.
The same schedule includes by‑elections in eight Assembly constituencies across seven states, all set for the 11th of November. The ECI’s move follows a recent meeting of the Multi‑Departmental Committee on Election Intelligence (MDCEI) in New Delhi, where the chief election commissioner and senior officials discussed steps to curb the flow of cash, drugs, liquor and other illicit inducements during the Bihar campaign.
By tightening enforcement and ensuring voters have paid time off on polling days, the Election Commission aims to keep the elections fair and inclusive.
Source: ianslive
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