Kerala to Declare Public Holidays on Local Body Polling Days

Thiruvananthapuram: The State Election Commission has directed the Kerala government to declare public holidays on the polling days of the upcoming local body elections.

According to the directive, December 9 and 11 should be declared public holidays — including holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act — in the respective districts where voting will take place, ensuring that all eligible voters can cast their ballots without difficulty.

The Commission has also asked the state government to ensure that employees in factories, plantations, and other sectors are either granted a public holiday or provided adequate facilities to exercise their voting rights. Employers have been urged to extend necessary support to their staff on the polling days.

In addition, the Commission has requested the Union Department of Personnel and Training to take steps to grant leave to employees of Central Government departments and Central Public Sector Undertakings on the days of polling.