Bengal Govt announces public holidays on April 23 and 29 for Assembly polls

The West Bengal government has declared public holidays on April 23 and April 29, 2026, in view of the upcoming state Assembly elections, ensuring voters can exercise their franchise without inconvenience. The decision applies to all government offices, educational institutions, and public sector bodies located in the respective constituencies going to polls on those dates.

According to the official memorandum, the first phase of polling will be held on April 23 across 152 Assembly constituencies, while the second phase is scheduled for April 29 covering the remaining 142 constituencies. The holidays have been announced under provisions of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, making them applicable across a wide range of public institutions within the polling areas.

The government has also directed that workers in private establishments, including shops, commercial units, industrial establishments and tea gardens, be granted paid leave on the respective polling days. Additionally, employees registered as voters in constituencies different from their workplace will also be entitled to paid leave under existing electoral laws. Provisions have been made to extend the same benefit in case of any re-poll.