Chandigarh, November 14, 2024 — By-elections for four Assembly constituencies in Punjab — Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Barnala — are set for November 20, prompting the Punjab government to declare a local holiday across these districts.
According to the notification issued under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, the holiday will apply to all government offices, boards, corporations, and educational institutions within the four districts. The move aims to facilitate voter turnout by allowing government employees who are registered voters in these constituencies to cast their ballots.
Eligible employees can apply for special leave on November 20 by presenting their voter ID cards to their respective authorities. The leave granted for voting will not be deducted from their regular leave balance, as specified by the Punjab government’s directive.
Additionally, under Section 135-B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, paid leave will be provided to workers employed in industries, businesses, and other establishments located in the affected constituencies to ensure they can participate in the voting process.
