J&K Govt Declares Paid Holidays for General Elections 2024
Jammu & Kashmir, August 23, 2024 — In a significant move ahead of the General Elections to the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, the Government has announced paid holidays on polling days. This decision aims to ensure full participation of the electorate in the upcoming electoral process.
Government Order Details
The Government of Jammu & Kashmir’s General Administration Department has issued Order No. 1553-JK(GAD) of 2024, dated August 23, 2024, in accordance with Section 135 B of the Representation of People Act, 1951. The order mandates paid holidays for all employees on election days across the three phases of polling.
Election Phases and Paid Holiday Dates
- Phase-I (24 Assembly Constituencies): September 18, 2024 (Wednesday)
- Phase-II (26 Assembly Constituencies): September 25, 2024 (Wednesday)
- Phase-III (40 Assembly Constituencies): October 1, 2024 (Tuesday)
Provisions and Enforcement
- Paid holidays are applicable to every person employed in businesses, trades, industrial undertakings, and other establishments entitled to vote in their respective constituencies.
- Employers are prohibited from deducting wages or reducing pay for the holiday granted. Employees typically not receiving wages for such days will be compensated as if they had worked.
- Non-compliance by employers will incur a fine of up to five hundred rupees, with exemptions only in cases where employee absence could lead to significant operational disruptions.
- Daily wage and casual workers are also entitled to paid leave on polling days.
Further Instructions
This order is in line with Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, ensuring that the declared holidays are observed nationwide.
