Ahead of the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election 2026, the Election Commission has imposed restrictive curbs on two-wheelers for use and rallies throughout the state in an attempt to maintain law and order and to deter voter intimidation. The restrictions took effect on Tuesday and apply across all 152 constituencies that will have elections on April 23.
The new restrictions will prohibit the use of motorcycles and scooters from 6 pm until 6 am, except under limited circumstances such as a medical emergency or a significant family obligation.
Additionally, the election commission has also banned all motorcycle and scooter rallies for the duration of the election due to the potential for large-scale disruption or misuse.
"This measure is being taken to maintain a calm and conducive atmosphere for voters and to prevent any untoward incident during the election period," ANI quoted the order.
These restrictions also impose limits on the use of motorcycles and scooters during daytime hours. Pillion riding will not be permitted from 6 am to 6 pm; however, exceptions will be granted for emergency purposes, such as transporting school children, for medical reasons or for other essential travel. On polling days, voters' family members may pillion ride to help voters get to the polling booths.
Written permission to move about in areas where motorcycles are restricted must be obtained from local law enforcement, according to the Commission in charge of the elections.
Gyanesh Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner, stated that these regulations were enacted in order to allow people to vote peacefully and to prevent motorcycle drivers from using them to intimidate others.
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As per the order, the DEOs and top police officers are being directed to publicise the restrictions through print, electronic, social media, district and block-level publicity machinery, and to coordinate for strict enforcement and monitoring.
“No violation that could lead to intimidation or disruption of the free and fair electoral process will be tolerated,” the order said.
The 2026 Assembly Elections in West Bengal will be conducted in two phases, with elections on April 23 and April 29. All ballots will be counted on May 4, 2026.