The Government of Himachal Pradesh has announced paid holidays on May 26, 28 and 30, 2026 in view of the upcoming Panchayati Raj elections to be held in three phases across the state.
As per a notification issued by the General Administration Department, all government offices, boards, corporations, educational institutions, industrial establishments, as well as shops and commercial establishments in the concerned areas will remain closed on the polling dates. The order also applies to establishments covered under the Industrial Disputes Act and provisions of the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881.
The notification further clarifies that the paid holiday benefit will extend to daily wage workers as well. Additionally, employees working away from their voting areas will be granted special casual leave, subject to proof of casting their vote.
However, the election schedule will not apply to select Gram Panchayats in Kullu district, including Karjan and Soyal in Naggar block, and Jaban and Namhog in Anni block.
The state government has also directed authorities to ensure that industrial workers are granted paid leave on polling days in accordance with provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to facilitate maximum voter participation.
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