TL;DR
The Election Commission has banned night-time two-wheeler movement and restricted pillion riding in West Bengal ahead of elections to prevent poll violence and ensure peaceful voting.
The Election Commission of India has implemented stringent restrictions on two-wheelers across West Bengal in preparation for the upcoming Assembly elections. These curbs, which came into effect two days before the first phase of polling on April 23, apply to all 152 constituencies. The directive aims to ensure peaceful and intimidation-free voting, particularly in a state with a history of poll-related violence.
Under the new regulations, motorcycles and scooters are prohibited from operating on roads between 6 pm and 6 am, with exceptions only for medical emergencies and family-related events. Additionally, pillion riding has been restricted during daytime hours (6 am to 6 pm), with limited exemptions for essential travel such as school commutes. The Election Commission has also imposed a blanket ban on bike rallies, citing concerns about their potential use for voter intimidation or disruption of the electoral process. These measures reflect an effort to prevent the misuse of two-wheelers for illicit activities during the election period.
