To ensure maximum voter turnout, Karnataka gets holiday on May-12
In order to ensure maximum voter participation on May 12, Karnataka government has declared a holiday for all government offices, banks, government and private educational institutions. Some schools or government offices, deputed to house polling booths, may also remain closed on May 11, if jurisdictional election officer feels arrangements for polling is pending. However, this holiday isn't applicable to poll-duty officers and emergency forces.
On vote counting day, some schools will remain closed too
The paid-holiday notice also extends to permanent employees, contract staffers and daily wagers of commercial establishments, industries and other set-ups. The government further said on May 15, schools and government offices where vote counting is set to take place will remain closed. As per section 135 (B) of the RP Act, 1951, voters are entitled to a holiday on polling day.
Restrictions on alcohol sale in Bengaluru till Karnataka polls
The atmosphere in Karnataka is tense and pulsating, since the assembly election is exactly a week away. Following Election Commission's model code of conduct, raids have been conducted in many bars and pubs in the state last month and excise licenses seized. Bengaluru police have also ordered alcohol ban during peak election time to avoid crime and to prevent influencing of votes.
