The Labour Department, Puducherry on March 25, 2026, issued paid Holiday Guidelines for Employees during 2026 Legislative Assembly Elections.
The circular provides details of the polling schedule for the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal (in multiple phases), and the Union Territory of Puducherry. It emphasizes that elections will be conducted on different dates in April 2026, including phased polling in West Bengal, as notified by the Election Commission.
In line with Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, all employees who are eligible voters must be granted a paid holiday on the day of polling, ensuring they can exercise their voting rights. Importantly, employers are prohibited from making any wage deductions or reductions on account of this leave. This provision applies uniformly across all categories of workers, including those employed in shifts, as well as daily wage and casual workers.
The circular further clarifies that this benefit is not restricted to employees voting within Puducherry. Any employee working or residing in Puducherry but registered as a voter in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or West Bengal must also be granted paid leave on the relevant polling date for their home state. This ensures inclusivity for migrant and outstation workers.
All employers—including factories, industries, shops, and other establishments—are directed to strictly implement these provisions. Non-compliance with the instructions will attract penal action under Section 135B(3) of the Act, reinforcing the mandatory nature of granting paid leave for voting.
[Notification No. 2128/LAB/AIL/T/2026]
