West Bengal Election 2026: EC bans bikes at night, pillion riding during day ahead of polls

The Election Commission has now imposed a restriction on two-wheelers across West Bengal ahead of polls to ensure a peaceful election. The curbs have come into effect two days ahead of the polls on April 23 in all 152 Assembly constituencies.

The ban also extends to bike rallies, nighttime riding and pillion riding.

The directive is being put in place in a state with a long history of poll violence.

Under the new curbs, bikes and scooters will not be allowed on the roads between 6 pm and 6 am. The only exception would be for medical needs and family events.

The commission has imposed a blanket ban on bike rallies, citing concerns over intimidation and disruption of the peaceful election.

One EC official noted that motorcycles were used by political operatives to transport cash and liquor through narrow lanes, bypassing checkpoints. Two-wheelers have also been used to influence and intimidate voters in sensitive areas, reports said.

Pillion riding will also be prohibited during the time except for essential reasons such as medical emergencies, family functions and activities like dropping off children from school.

On voting day, the curbs will be relaxed to allow family members to travel as pillion riders between 6 am and 6 pm.

The commission said that those seeking exemptions will be required to obtain written permission from their local police station.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said on Monday that the EC would leave no stone unturned to hold free, fair and transparent elections in the state.

The directive has caused some anxiety among gig workers and delivery app drivers. Law enforcement said that the order does not affect delivery workers and workers who rely on two-wheelers for their daily income during peak hours.