The Election Commission of India (ECI) on March 16, 2026, issued a notification regarding the Paid Holidays for General Elections 2026.
The following has been stated: -
•The Election Commission of India has mandated a paid holiday for employees in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry for the 2026 Assembly elections.
•Polling will be held on April 09, 2026 (Assam, Kerala, Puducherry), April 23, 2026 (Tamil Nadu), and April 23, 2026 & April 29, 2026 (West Bengal).
•Under Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, employers must grant paid leave without wage deduction.
•The provision applies to all workers, including shift, casual, and daily wage workers, even outside their constituency.
•Non-compliance may attract penalties, except in essential services where absence may cause serious risk or loss.
The detailed notification is given in the document below.
[Notification No. 78/EPS/2026]
