Bikes banned at night, no pillion riding in day: Mandate in Bengal before polls
WEST BENGAL, APR 21 : The Election Commission has imposed strict curbs on two-wheelers across West Bengal ahead of the Assembly polls, banning bike rallies, restricting night-time movement, and limiting pillion riding to ensure free and peaceful elections.
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.
No nighttime ride: 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.
No pillion ride during day: 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.
Only family as pillion on voting day: 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.
Order by the Election Commission.
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.
-PTI
