Maharashtra declared Dec 2 a paid holiday for employees in poll-bound districts for municipal council/nagar panchayat elections (246 councils, 42 panchayats). Applies even if workplace outside constituency; essential services get 2-3hr leave. GR warns non-compliance invites action.
Maharashtra government issued a GR announcing paid holiday on December 2 for local body polls, ensuring voters aren't deprived amid past complaints of denied leave. Polling covers 246 municipal councils and 42 nagar panchayats statewide—first phase of delayed elections. Counting follows Dec 3; campaigning ends 10pm Dec 1.
The directive mandates full-day paid leave for workers/officers in polling areas under Labour Dept establishments (factories, shops, IT, hotels, malls). Essential/continuous services grant 2-3 hours special leave. Applies regardless of workplace location.
Eligibility Rules:
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All voters in 288 local bodies get paid off Dec 2.
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Includes rural Pune areas; excludes PMC/PCMC urban zones.
Compliance Mandates:
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Factories/shops/IT firms must adhere; violations attract penalties on complaints.
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Cites Representation of People Act 1951 for voter rights.
Subsequent phases cover Panchayat Samitis, Zilla Parishads, municipal corporations like Mumbai.
Sources: Indian Express, Financial Express, India TV, Mid-Day