Maharashtra Elections 2024 Update (November 18): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi held a press conference in Mumbai today, taking aim at the BJP. Gandhi criticized the party's "ek hain, safe hain" slogan, humorously displaying a locker as a symbol. He described this election as a clash of ideologies, suggesting that the "safe" reference in the slogan is a metaphorical locker for billionaires closely associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Maharashtra government, under the leadership of Eknath Shinde, has declared a public holiday to encourage greater voter participation in the upcoming state elections. Voting for 288 assembly seats across Maharashtra is set to occur in a single phase on November 20 (Wednesday).

Bank Holiday in Maharashtra: Digital Services Remain Unaffected
According to the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) holiday schedule, banks will be closed on November 20 in key areas, including Belapur, Mumbai, and Nagpur. Despite the closure of physical bank branches, online transactions will continue to function normally.

Digital banking services, including UPI platforms, will remain accessible. Customers who haven't yet registered for mobile or net banking are encouraged to do so to avoid any inconvenience.

ATMs will remain operational throughout the state to ensure that people can access cash in case of emergencies.

Paid Leave for Mumbai Offices on Voting Day
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has previously announced that employees working in offices and businesses within its jurisdiction will receive paid leave on November 20 to facilitate voting. In an official order, BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani warned that employers who do not comply could face penalties. There will be no salary deductions for employees taking leave on the election day.

Emergency Services Will Continue as Normal
Essential services will not be disrupted on the polling day. The BMC's directive specifies that, in cases of emergency or special circumstances, workers should be given at least a four-hour window to vote, with prior approval from the District Election Officer.

November 2024 Bank Holidays
November includes a total of 12 bank holidays, covering religious festivals, regional events, weekends, and the election day. In addition to the November 20 holiday for the Maharashtra elections.
Banks will also be closed on November 23 in Shillong for the Seng Kutsnem festival.

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