The Finance Department, on March 30, 2026, issued a memorandum declaring public holidays in connection with the General Elections to the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, 2026, scheduled in two phases.
The Governor has declared April 23, 2026 (Phase 1) and April 29, 2026 (Phase 2) as public holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, for government offices, educational institutions, and other public bodies located in the respective Assembly Constituencies going to polls on those dates. The Labour Department will ensure that workers in shops, commercial, and industrial establishments, including tea gardens, are granted paid holidays to enable them to vote.
Employees registered as electors in a constituency but working elsewhere will also be entitled to paid leave on the poll day. Provisions have been made for similar leave in case of re-poll. Additionally, special leave may be granted to polling personnel if duties extend late into the night, and local holidays may be declared for institutions used as polling or distribution centres on preceding dates.
[Notification No. 1173-F(P2)]
