West Bengal Elections 2026: The Election Commission has banned two-wheelers in West Bengal before the assembly elections. Along with this, bike rallies have also been banned for free and peaceful voting. Besides, a limit has been imposed on movement even at night. Along with this, double seating in the vehicle has also been banned. These strict guidelines of the Election Commission have been implemented from Tuesday, April 21. Taking this decision two days before voting, the Election Commission has implemented these orders on all 152 seats of the first phase. The first phase of voting is to be held in the state on 23 April.
Also, the Commission has made it clear in its instructions that except in emergency situations, there will be a ban on driving motorbikes from 6 pm to 6 am. There will be a complete ban on bike rallies. Apart from this, there will be a ban on sitting at the back from 6 am to 6 pm. Except for those going to vote with their families, there will be exemption.
According to the order issued from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, strict restrictions have been imposed on the use of motorcycles from two days before voting till the voting day. The Commission says that this step has been taken to conduct the elections completely fair, peaceful and without any fear or pressure. These restrictions will come into effect as soon as the publicity noise subsides.
The rules are strict even during the day
Two people will not be allowed to sit on the bike (pillion riding) from 6 am to 6 pm. So that overcrowding and possible stress can be prevented. However, limited relaxation has been given in necessary situations like medical emergency, family need or transportation of children to school. The rules will remain in force on the day of voting also. Some relief has been given for important work with family or voting. The Commission has made it clear that if someone needs exemption in special circumstances, it will be mandatory to take written permission from the local police station. The administration and police have been asked to strictly follow these instructions and keep monitoring at every level.
Voting is to be held on 152 seats in 16 districts
Voting will be held on 152 seats in 16 districts on April 23 for the first phase of Bengal Assembly elections. These include eight districts of North Bengal, three of South Bengal and five of Jangalmahal region.
22 from Murshidabad, nine from Cooch Behar, seven from Jalpaiguri, five from Alipurduar, one from Kalimpong, five from Darjeeling, nine from North Dinajpur, six from South Dinajpur, 12 from Malda, 11 from Birbhum, nine from West Bardhaman, 16 from East Medinipur, 15 from West Medinipur, four from Jhargram, nine from Purulia and Bankura includes 12 seats.
A total of so many candidates are trying their luck in the first phase.
A total of 1,478 candidates are in the fray in the first phase. The total number of voters is 3 crore 60 lakh 77 thousand 171, which includes 1 crore 84 lakh 99 thousand 496 males, 1 crore 75 lakh 77 thousand 210 females and 465 transgenders.
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