The Karnataka government has declared on May 12 — the day when citizens of the state will cast their votes for the Assembly Elections — a holiday for government offices, banks, government and private schools and colleges.
This is in an effort to encourage and ensure maximum participation of voters.
According to the notification, the jurisdictional election officer can also declare May 11 as a holiday for those government schools and offices that will function as polling booths if required, The Times of India reported.
Officials on election duty and those in emergency services, however, will not get a holiday.
Permanent employees, contract staffers and daily wage labourers in commercial establishments and other set-ups are also eligible for a paid holiday on May 12, the report added.
4.9 crore electors are expected to cast their votes in 56,696 polling stations across the state on May 12. The election results will be announced on May 15.
How to find out if your name is on the voter list
Apprehension about voter turnout
After the Election Commission announced the dates for the single-phase election, there was apprehension that the voter turnout would be low, considering voting day was falling on a weekend.
The Election Commission has, however, ruled out a change in the poll date, concerns of lower voter turnout notwithstanding.
"EC changing the poll date is unlikely as it is decided after factoring exams, public holidays, festivals and other events," state Additional Chief Electoral Officer KG Jagadeesha said.
With IANS inputs