In an effort to make the election in West Bengal free from any kind of threats or intimidation, fair and transparent, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal, has imposed strict restrictions on the use of motorcycles.
In a notification issued by the Commission on 20 April, the Commission made it clear that no motorcycle rallies will be allowed from 48 hours before polling day.
Sources in the Commission said that it had been noticed that the political parties conduct bike rallies after the campaigning ends but in many cases, it has been found that the voters are threatened in the pretext of rallies.
“The Commission will not allow any kind of intimidation to the voters in this election and so bike rallies have been banned,” an Election Commission of India official said.
Additionally, movement of motorbikes will be completely restricted between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. during this period, except in cases of emergency such as medical needs or essential family requirements.
The order further states that from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the same period, pillion riding will not be permitted, barring exceptional circumstances like medical emergencies or essential duties such as transporting school children.
On the day of polling, however, limited relaxation will be allowed, with family pillion riding permitted between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. for voting and essential purposes.
Officials have been directed to widely publicise these restrictions and ensure strict enforcement in coordination with the district police administration.
The move is aimed at preventing intimidation, unlawful mobilisation, and any disruption to the electoral process during the crucial 48-hour silence period before voting.