Kerala Notification on Paid Holiday for Tamil Nadu Electors – Employer Compliance Advisory

The Government of Kerala, vide G.O.(Rt) No. 1546/2026/GAD dated 26 March 2026, has declared 23 April 2026 as a paid holiday for employees working in Kerala who are registered electors in Tamil Nadu, in connection with the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections.

This is issued in accordance with Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which mandates that all eligible employees must be granted paid leave on the day of polling.

Employers are required to ensure:

• No deduction of wages for such leave

• Applicability to all categories of employees, including casual and daily wage workers

• Coverage of employees working outside their registered constituency

Non-compliance may attract a fine up to ₹500 and may also lead to regulatory scrutiny.

Employers, particularly those with inter-state workforce, should identify eligible employees, issue appropriate internal communication, and maintain proper attendance records to ensure full compliance.