Ahead of the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections on April 23, the Election Commission has imposed stringent restrictions on motorcycle movement to ensure a fair and peaceful voting process. The Commission has gone a step further this time by cracking down on bike riding in the state to maintain order during elections. In a recent notification, the Election Commission announced a crackdown on motorcycle rallies and riding due to concerns over voter safety and potential misuse of bike processions for dominance.
To enhance voter safety, the Election Commission has prohibited bike rallies and motorcycle processions in sensitive areas two days before the elections. Additionally, riding motorbikes will be banned from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily, with exceptions only for emergency medical services or family needs. The Commission has also imposed restrictions on pillion riding, stating that no riders can carry passengers on the back of bikes from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. two days before the elections, except for specific cases like transporting school students, medical needs, or family requirements.
The Election Commission has emphasized the need for written permission from the police station for any exemptions to these rules. District administration and police have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with these regulations. West Bengal will witness polling in 294 Assembly constituencies over two phases on April 23 and 29, with Kolkata going to the polls in the second phase. Vote counting is scheduled for May 4.
