Public holiday declared in Punjab on 26th, all government institutions including Chandigarh will remain closed

May 24, 2026

The Punjab government has declared a public holiday on May 26 across the state in view of the upcoming local body elections.

According to the notification, this holiday has been declared to ensure smooth voting during the general elections of municipal corporations and municipal councils across Punjab.

Along with this, all Punjab government offices, boards, corporations, educational institutions and other government institutions located in Chandigarh will also remain closed. This decision has been taken to ensure that as many people as possible can exercise their right to vote.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has also declared a special casual holiday on May 26 for all its officers and employees who are registered voters in the Punjab Municipal Corporation elections. This will enable the staff members to cast their votes in the local body elections.

As per the standard operating procedures issued by the State Election Commission, no posters, banners, or other election-related promotional material may be displayed near polling stations. No political party or contesting candidate shall be allowed to set up polling booths, tents or similar structures within 200 metres of any polling station.

Except for vehicles authorised by the State Election Commission, Punjab, District Election Officer (Jalandhar), or the Returning Officer of the concerned constituency, no private vehicle shall be allowed within 200 metres of any polling booth.