North News
Chandigarh, December 19
The Punjab State Election Commission (PSEC) announced that December 21 would be a public holiday for all government offices in areas where municipal elections will be held. The move, under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, aims to provide voters with the opportunity to participate in the general and bye-elections for five Municipal Corporations, 41 Municipal Councils, and various ward elections.
A spokesperson confirmed that special leave would be granted to government employees and other workers living in election areas but employed elsewhere. Schools used as polling stations will also observe a holiday. December 21 will be a “Close Day” under the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1958, and the Factories Act, 1948, allowing workers in those sectors to vote.
The government also declared December 21 as a “Dry Day” in the election areas. Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjabi University, and Panjab University announced the postponement of exams scheduled for that day, with new dates to be provided on their websites.
The Commission emphasized that measures have been taken to ensure free and fair elections, urging all eligible voters to cast their ballots.
