West Bengal polls: Delhi declares April 29 as paid holiday for eligible staff

The Delhi government’s Labour Department has issued an office order declaring April 29 as a paid holiday for eligible employees to cast their votes in the West Bengal Assembly elections (Phase II). According to the order, all employers across industrial establishments, factories, shops, and commercial institutions in the National Capital Territory of Delhi must grant a paid holiday to employees who are registered voters in the West Bengal elections.

“The Election Commission of India vide their communication dated March 16 has announced General Elections for Legislative Assemblies of West Bengal (Phase-II) to be held on April 29 (Wednesday) to be declared as “paid holiday” under section 135(B) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951,” the order said.

“Accordingly, all Employers of Industrial Establishments/Factories/Shops /Commercial Establishments/Institutions operating in the National Capital Territory of Delhi shall grant a paid holiday to their employees who are electors of the General Legislative Assembly elections. 2026 of West Bengal (Phase-II) to enable them to cast their vote on the day of polling, i.e., April 29 (Wednesday), in case the scheduled day is a working day for the concerned Employees/Electors. Non-compliance of the above directions shall attract action as per the relevant provisions of law,” it added.