JK Government Declares Public Holidays for Poll Days

JK Government Declares Public Holidays for Poll Days

JK Government Declares Public Holidays for Poll Days

The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced public holidays on the dates of upcoming polls in five parliamentary constituencies within the Union Territory. The decision, outlined in a government order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), aims to ensure maximum participation in the democratic process.

Poll Day Designated as Paid Holiday

Under Section 135 B of the Representation of the People Act 1951, five days have been officially declared as holidays. Notably, the order specifies that the day of polling will be considered a paid holiday for all eligible voters employed in various sectors, including businesses, trades, and industrial undertakings.

Entitlement for All Workers

The order extends beyond regular employees to include daily wage and casual workers, ensuring their entitlement to both the holiday and wages on the polling day. This provision underscores the government’s commitment to inclusivity and fair treatment of all workers, regardless of their employment status.

According to the order, specific dates have been designated as holidays for each parliamentary constituency. For instance, April 19th will be a holiday for the Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency, while April 26th will be observed as a holiday for the Jammu Parliamentary Constituency.

Similarly, May 7th, May 13th, and May 20th will serve as holidays for the Anantnag-Rajouri, Srinagar, and Baramulla Parliamentary Constituencies respectively.Moreover, the order emphasizes that individuals residing in a constituency and registered as electors, even if employed outside the constituency, are entitled to a paid holiday on the polling day.

This provision ensures that every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise their democratic right without facing any undue barriers.Furthermore, the government order mandates the observance of these paid holidays in accordance with the explanation to Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, solidifying the legal basis for the decision and ensuring compliance across all sectors.