Desk Correspondent , Kolkata - In a move to ensure peaceful polling, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has banned bike rallies and restricted pillion riding in West Bengal ahead of the state assembly elections. The directive, aimed at curbing potential intimidation of voters and maintaining law and order, prohibits bike rallies 72 hours prior to the date of polling in each of the eight phases. Additionally, pillion riding has been restricted on polling days, with exceptions made only for immediate family members or in cases of medical emergencies.

Local authorities have been instructed to strictly enforce these measures across all constituencies. The ECI noted that bike rallies are often used by political workers to create an atmosphere of fear and to influence voters through displays of muscle power. To counter this, static surveillance teams and flying squads have been deployed to monitor movement and intercept any unauthorized group activities. This decision follows various reports of pre-poll violence and complaints from multiple political parties regarding the misuse of two-wheelers during the campaign period.

The restrictions are part of a broader security framework designed to facilitate a free and fair election process in the state. Beyond the bike rally ban, the Commission has also increased the deployment of central paramilitary forces at sensitive booths. Officials emphasized that any violation of these orders will lead to the immediate seizure of vehicles and legal action under the Representation of the People Act. By thinning out the presence of large mobile groups, the administration hopes to provide a secure environment for the millions of citizens set to cast their ballots.