The Government of Gujarat has issued an official order granting a paid holiday on Thursday, 19th June 2025, in connection with the by-elections to the 24-Kadi (A.J.) constituency in Mehsana district and the 87-Visavadar constituency in Junagadh district.
The announcement comes following a directive from the Additional Chief Electoral Officer, Gujarat, ensuring all eligible voters are provided the opportunity to cast their votes as per Section 135-B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
📌 Key Provisions of the Order:
Paid Leave on Polling Day:
Every person employed in shops or institutions in the respective constituencies and entitled to vote will be granted leave on June 19, 2025.
No Wage Deduction:
Employers are prohibited from deducting wages or adjusting leave for workers absent on polling day.
Daily Wagers Included:
Casual and daily wage workers are also entitled to paid leave and must be compensated for the day.
Substitution of Weekly Leave:
If the weekly off day does not fall on June 19, it must be rescheduled to polling day to ensure leave is granted.
Penalty for Non-Compliance:
Employers who deny paid leave in violation of the Act can be fined up to ₹500.
Exception Clause:
Leave need not be granted if the employee’s absence may pose a risk or cause major operational disruption.
This move reinforces the commitment to ensuring free and fair elections by facilitating voter participation across all levels of employment. The Labour Commissioner has urged all establishments to comply with the guidelines and respect workers’ right to vote.
