The Election Commission of India has announced paid holidays for polling days during the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections and bye-elections in 2025.
Polling will take place in two phases: Phase-I on Thursday, November 6, and Phase-II on Tuesday, November 11. Additionally, bye-elections for eight Assembly Constituencies will occur on November 11.
According to Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, employers must grant a paid holiday to every eligible voter working in any business, trade, industrial undertaking, or other establishment. This provision covers all categories of workers, including daily wage earners and casual employees.
Furthermore, the Commission has warned that employers who fail to comply with this rule may face penalties. It also emphasized that voters employed outside their registered constituencies are entitled to paid leave, enabling them to return home and vote.
In addition, the Commission clarified that casual and daily wage workers working in industrial or commercial establishments outside their voting area must receive paid leave on polling day. This ensures they have the opportunity to travel and participate in the electoral process.
To enforce these provisions, the Commission has directed all State and Union Territory governments to issue clear instructions to relevant authorities. By doing so, it aims to guarantee that every eligible voter can exercise their franchise freely and conveniently.
