Get ready Kerala, election fever is here! The State Election Commission has issued a sparkling order for all private commercial and industrial companies. On the big election days of December 9 and 11, these workplaces must give their employees a holiday so they can freely go and cast their votes in local body elections. No worries about salary cuts or missing pay, because the commission has made it clear: “The establishments have also been directed not to withhold their salary or reduce it on account of the holiday.” Isn't that great? Now, where are the polls happening? On December 9, voters in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam will march to the booths. Then, December 11 is the day for Thrissur, Malappuram, Wayanad, Palakkad, Kannur, Kasaragod, and Kozhikode. What if someone’s job is outside their home district? The commission thought of that too and said, “Voters who are employed outside their districts should be given special permission to travel to their polling station and vote.” This means no hurdles in voting, wherever you work! This confident push by the State Election Commission ensures everyone’s right to vote shines bright and clear. So mark your calendars and get ready to make your voice heard in Kerala’s local elections!