Paid Leave Announced in Pune District for February 7 Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Polls
Pune, 6th February 2026: Employees working in industries, commercial establishments, and factories across Pune district will be granted paid leave to cast their votes in the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections scheduled for Friday, February 7. The directive was issued by District Collector and District Election Officer Jitendra Dudi to ensure maximum voter participation.
The order applies to all eligible voters employed in establishments within the district, including those working away from their home talukas on polling day. Authorities said the move is aimed at removing work-related barriers that could prevent citizens from exercising their democratic rights.
Polling will be conducted across several talukas, including Baramati, Maval, Mulshi, Shirur, Haveli, Daund, Indapur, Purandar, Bhor, Velhe, Ambegaon, Junnar, and Khed.
Leave Guidelines for Employers:
The decision follows a circular issued on January 30, 2026, by the Industries, Energy, Labour and Mining Department, which mandates paid leave for employees in establishments governed by labour laws. The directive covers:
Private companies and commercial establishments
Factories and industrial units
Shops and retail businesses
Hotels, restaurants, and theatres
IT companies and corporate offices
Shopping complexes, malls, and similar commercial premises
In cases where a full day’s leave cannot be granted due to operational reasons, employers must provide two to three hours of paid time off to enable staff to vote.
District authorities have instructed employers to implement the order strictly. Officials warned that denying leave or failing to provide the mandated concession could invite action under Election Commission and State Government regulations.
Employees who face refusal of leave can lodge complaints with the Labour Department by email, providing details of the establishment, the concerned official, and contact information.
For further assistance or grievance redressal, voters may contact designated Labour Department officials, including Assistant Labour Commissioner Pravin Jadhav, whose contact details have been circulated by the district administration.
Collector Dudi has appealed to citizens to participate actively in the polls, emphasizing that strong voter turnout is essential for strengthening grassroots democracy.
