Bengaluru: Over two million techies in the Tech Hub of Bengaluru and the Cultural Capital of Mysuru have a new task on their hands as they have to show their forefinger on the left hand that is marked with indelible ink that shows they have voted in the Lok Sabha election, before going on a weekend bash.

IT companies have decided to ensure that their employees vote first and then enjoy the weekend after Apr.18 when Karnataka goes to polls in the first phase for 14 seats. Several private companies in Bengaluru have decided that they will consider voting day as a paid leave only if employees show proof of casting their vote. It was suggested during a recent meeting of HR officials of some companies and the State Election Commission (SEC).

This was yet another step taken up by the SEC to boost polling percentage especially in urban areas since most of the eligible voters were enjoying holiday declared on polling day without casting their vote and hence the turnout at the polling booths in urban areas were below expectation in the previous elections held so far despite being intellectuals and learned.

Official sources said that IT and BT companies will verify the proof submitted by their staff in support of their claim (of casting their vote), if it was found false not only their leave will be cancelled and some other measures will be taken by the companies to punish the employees. Leading IT companies in Bengaluru and Mysuru including Infosys, Wipro, Biocon etc., have already issued messages to its staff not to bunk voting that will be viewed seriously.

Public holidays are observed on Apr. 17 on account of Mahaveer Jayanti, Apr. 18 polling day, Apr. 19 Good Friday, and the following day a Saturday, followed by a Sunday. However, the decision of pay cut is left to the companies and the Election Commission has no say in the matter. The move is an initiative to encourage voting among employees in the elections.

Already Hotel and Resort Owners Assn. have stopped registration of rooms on Polling days (Apr.18 and 23) in Karnataka. However, registration will be allowed if proof of casting vote was provided.