The Election Commission of India (ECI) has imposed unprecedented restrictions in West Bengal ahead of the assembly polls. Motorcycles have been banned between 6pm and 6am, with exemptions only for medical emergencies or family functions. Pillion riding is also banned between 6am and 6pm, with limited exceptions for medical emergencies, family functions, and essential requirements.
The restrictions will be in place from two days prior to each phase of elections, starting from April 23. The ECI has also ordered the evacuation of tourists and outsiders from seaside resorts in Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpur, Udaipur, and Shankarpur.
The poll body has cited concerns over intimidation and source jamming during elections as the reason for the restrictions. However, critics argue that the move will affect the livelihoods of gig workers, food delivery personnel, and others who rely on motorcycles for their daily work.
The ECI has also suspended three executive magistrates posted with the flying squad in Bhabanipur for dereliction of duty. The order is part of a broader enforcement sweep by ECI ahead of Phase 1, which covers 152 constituencies across North Bengal and several districts of South Bengal.
