Assam Government declares localized Public Holidays on Polling Days

The Assam government has announced localized public holidays on April 19, 26, and May 7 for constituencies conducting Lok Sabha polls. These holidays have been mandated by an order under the Negotiable Instruments Act of 1881 issued by the Governor.

Localized Public Holidays for Lok Sabha Polls

In a move to facilitate smooth polling processes, the Assam government has declared public holidays on specific dates coinciding with the Lok Sabha election phases. The first phase on April 19 will witness polling in Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Kaziranga, Lakhimpur, and Sonitpur constituencies.

The Lok Sabha polls in Assam will be conducted in three phases, each covering different constituencies. The second phase on April 26 will see polling in Silchar, Karimganj, Diphu, Nagaon, and Darrang-Udalguri constituencies. Finally, the third phase on May 7 will involve polling in Guwahati, Dhubri, Barpeta, and Kokrakhjar constituencies.

ALSO READ: Key political figures contest Lok Sabha Elections in Northeast's first phase

According to the General Administration Department order, all government and non-government offices, as well as other establishments within the specified jurisdiction of the constituencies, will remain closed on polling days. This includes educational institutions, business establishments, commercial establishments like banks, tea gardens, and industries.

Ensuring smooth conduct of elections

The declaration of public holidays aims to ensure the smooth conduct of Lok Sabha elections in Assam. By closing offices and establishments on polling days, authorities seek to facilitate voter turnout and minimize disruptions during the electoral process.

ALSO READ: Prakash Ambedkar's Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi announces Lok Sabha candidates

The order for localized public holidays is issued under the Negotiable Instruments Act of 1881, giving legal backing to the government's decision. This act provides the framework for regulating negotiable instruments like promissory notes, bills of exchange, and cheques, and empowers authorities to declare public holidays for various purposes, including elections.

The closure of offices and establishments on polling days is aimed at encouraging voter participation and ensuring that citizens have the opportunity to exercise their democratic right without facing any hindrances.

With polling dates approaching, election authorities are making necessary arrangements to conduct smooth and fair elections across the designated constituencies in Assam. The declaration of public holidays underscores the government's commitment to facilitating the electoral process and upholding the principles of democracy.