The Government of Maharashtra, the Department of Industries, Energy, Labor and Mines issued a notification on October 24th 2024, regarding declaration of election holiday due to general election on 20th November 2024.
The Legislative Assembly General Election is held on November 20, 2024, the Government of Maharashtra is taking proactive steps to ensure that every eligible voter can exercise their right to vote. The circular has laid out comprehensive measures to facilitate voter participation, reinforcing the democratic principle that every registered citizen over the age of 18 has the right to make their voice heard.
Key Directives from the Government Circular
- Leave Entitlement for Voters:
- All eligible voters, regardless of their employment status—be it in the private sector, government jobs, or other establishments—are entitled to leave on election day. This policy applies to various organizations, including industries, corporations, and public institutions.
- Salary Protections:
- A significant aspect of the circular is the assurance that no salary deductions will occur for employees who take leave to vote. If an employee is unpaid for the day due to taking leave, they will still receive their regular salary as if they had worked that day. This measure aims to alleviate financial concerns that might prevent voters from participating.
- Employer Compliance:
- The government has made it clear that employers who fail to comply with these directives will face repercussions in line with the rules set forth by the Election Commission. This ensures that employers cannot unduly restrict their employees’ rights to vote.
- Minimum Leave Requirement:
- In cases where granting a full day off is not feasible for operational reasons, employers are still mandated to provide a minimum of two hours of leave for employees to cast their votes. Employers are required to seek prior approval from relevant authorities to make necessary arrangements.
- Strict Enforcement:
- The circular emphasizes that establishments must strictly adhere to these guidelines. If any voter encounters difficulties in voting due to inadequate leave provisions, the government will take appropriate action against the employers.
For further details, the circular is available on the Maharashtra Government’s official website at www.maharashtra.gov.in, reference number 202410241528005510.
