Ensuring Voting Rights for Migrant Employees in Puducherry

In preparation for the forthcoming Lok Sabha Elections in 2024, scheduled across multiple phases, all employers in shops and establishments throughout the Union Territory of Puducherry are required to provide paid leave to their migrant employees on the respective polling days. This mandate, in accordance with the Representation of People Act, 1951, aims to facilitate every eligible employee’s ability to vote without facing work-related obstacles. Non-compliance with this directive will result in penalties as stipulated by the Act. Adherence to these regulations is crucial to ensuring the democratic participation of all eligible voters, regardless of their employment status. This notification was published on April 25, 2024.