Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024: Voters across the state will cast their ballots on November 20, with special measures in place affecting various sectors.
Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024: As Maharashtra gears up for the 2024 Legislative Assembly elections, authorities are taking several steps to ensure a smooth and fair voting process. The campaign for the Maharashtra assembly elections, the second phase of the Jharkhand assembly polls, and 15 assembly by-elections concluded on Monday, with voting set to take place on November 20. Voters across the state will cast their ballots on November 20, with special measures in place affecting various sectors.
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Banks closed for election day
In compliance with the Reserve Bank of India’s holiday schedule, all banks in Maharashtra will remain closed on election day, November 20. While physical bank branches will not operate, digital banking services—including ATMs, UPI platforms, and online banking—will continue as usual, providing uninterrupted access to financial services for customers.
Stock market closed on Nov 20
The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will be closed on November 20, meaning no trading or settlement of stocks, derivatives, and securities lending and borrowing (SLB) segments will take place on the day. This move is in line with the election-related restrictions and aims to ensure that financial markets do not operate during the crucial voting period.
Commodity market trading hours
The commodity market will have revised trading hours on November 20. The Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) will remain closed for the morning session from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, the evening trading session will proceed as usual from 5 PM to 11:55 PM, with a special extension until 9 PM for selected agricultural commodities. On the other hand, the National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) will be closed for the day, and contracts expiring on November 20 will be preponed to expire on November 19.
Educational institutions closed
To encourage participation in the electoral process, all schools, colleges, and educational institutions in Maharashtra will remain closed on November 20. This measure will allow both students and staff to cast their votes without any disruption to their schedules.
Paid leave for employees
In a move aimed at facilitating voter participation, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that all private-sector employees in Mumbai will be granted paid leave on election day. Additionally, government offices across the state will remain closed. Emergency workers will be given a four-hour window during the day to cast their votes.
Liquor shops closed
In accordance with election regulations, the sale of alcohol will be prohibited until 6 PM on November 20, ensuring a controlled environment during the voting period. This is a standard measure taken around elections as well as during national, cultural, or religious events to maintain public order.
