Pune MLC Elections 2026: Paid Holiday for Government Employees, 4-Hour Voting Leave for Private Staff on October 23
Eligible government employees will receive a paid holiday on October 23 for the Pune Graduates’ and Teachers’ MLC elections, while private-sector employees will receive four hours off to vote instead of the previously announced two hours. Polling will take place from 8 am to 4 pm, with counting scheduled for October 27.
Pune, October 19, 2026: Government employees registered as voters in the Pune Graduates’ and Teachers’ constituencies will receive a paid holiday on Friday, October 23, to cast their votes in the Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) elections. Meanwhile, eligible private-sector employees will receive four hours off from work to exercise their voting rights.
The decision was announced by Pune Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer Sheetal Teli-Ugale. The revised arrangement follows an Election Commission circular issued on October 16, 2026.
Government Employees to Receive Paid Holiday
Under Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, government employees registered as voters in the concerned constituencies will be granted a paid holiday on polling day.
The holiday will be provided in addition to their existing casual leave entitlement.
However, the benefit applies only to employees whose names appear on the electoral rolls of the Pune Graduates’ or Teachers’ constituencies.
Government offices have also been instructed to ensure that essential administrative functions and public services continue without disruption.
Private Employees to Get Four Hours for Voting
In a significant revision, the Election Commission has increased the voting concession for eligible private-sector employees from two hours to four hours.
The special concession will allow registered voters working in private establishments to visit their designated polling stations without facing work-related difficulties.
Unlike government employees covered by the order, private-sector staff will not receive a full-day paid holiday under this arrangement.
The concession is intended to encourage voter participation while allowing private establishments to continue their operations.
Pune Graduates’ and Teachers’ Election Schedule
Polling for the Pune division's Graduates’ and Teachers’ constituencies is scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2026, between 8 am and 4 pm.
The counting of votes will take place on Tuesday, October 27.
The Pune Graduates’ constituency covers five districts: Pune, Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur and Solapur. The Teachers’ constituency covers designated areas within the Pune division.
Election officials have urged eligible voters to make use of the leave arrangements and participate in the electoral process.