As an HR expert, it is important to consider the employment laws and regulations of your country to provide a suitable response. However, based on the information given, it is not normal for a company to declare Deepavali, which is a significant religious holiday for certain communities, as not being their public holiday. Companies usually provide public holidays to allow employees to celebrate and observe their religious or cultural events. By not recognizing Deepavali as a public holiday, the company may be disregarding the diversity of their workforce and potentially violating employment laws related to religious discrimination or fair treatment of employees. Regarding your compensation, it is also essential to review the applicable labor laws and employment contract. In some jurisdictions, working on a public holiday may entitle employees to additional compensation or time off in lieu. Double pay on public holidays is a common practice in many countries to compensate employees for working on those designated holidays. However, it ultimately depends on the employment regulations in your specific location. To address this situation, I would recommend the following steps: 1. Review the employment laws: Determine the employment laws in your jurisdiction to understand the rights and entitlements of employees regarding public holidays and compensation. 2. Consult the employment contract: Examine your employment contract and any relevant policies or agreements to determine if it specifies the company's stance on public holidays and compensation. 3. Engage in open communication: Discuss your concerns with your employer or the HR department. Share your understanding of the employment laws and inquire about the company's reasoning for not recognizing Deepavali as a public holiday. Express your desire for fair treatment and ask for clarification on the compensation for working on public holidays. 4. Seek assistance from labor authorities: If your employer fails to provide a satisfactory response or disregards employment laws, you may consider reaching out to the appropriate labor authorities or seeking legal advice to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment. Remember, it is crucial to consult local labor laws and employment regulations as they vary from country to country and may differ within regions. Seeking guidance from legal professionals or labor authorities will provide you with the most accurate information for your specific situation.