The Election Commission has imposed sweeping restrictions on two-wheeler movement across West Bengal ahead of the Assembly polls, banning bike rallies and restricting pillion riding during the day to ensure a free, fair, peaceful and violence-free electoral process.
The curbs came into force from Tuesday – two days before polling – and will apply to all 152 Assembly constituencies going to vote in the first phase on April 23.
Under the order, bikes and scooters will not be allowed on roads between 6 pm and 6 am during this period, except in emergencies such as medical needs or family functions. The Commission has also imposed a blanket ban on bike rallies, citing concerns over intimidation and disruption of the electoral process.
During the day, between 6 am and 6 pm, pillion riding will be prohibited, except for essential purposes such as medical emergencies, family functions, or activities like dropping and picking up schoolchildren.
On polling day, limited relaxation has been granted. Family members will be allowed to travel as pillion riders between 6 am and 6 pm for voting and other essential requirements.
The Commission said the restrictions are aimed at preventing “any form of intimidation and source jamming” and ensuring a calm and conducive atmosphere for voters. Individuals seeking exemptions must obtain prior written permission from their local police station.
The first phase of polling in the West Bengal Assembly elections is scheduled for Thursday.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar asserted on Monday that the Election Commission will leave no stone unturned in holding free, fair and transparent polls in West Bengal.
The Election Commission and the ruling Trinamool Congress have been at loggerheads over the special intensive revision of voters’ list with the party accusing the poll authority of deliberately disenfranchising voters to benefit the BJP. Both the Commission and the BJP have rejected the charge while dubbing it as baseless.
