The Election Commission of India has banned motorcycle use in West Bengal from 6pm to 6am two days before each polling phase and ordered evacuation of tourists from coastal resorts like Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpur, Udaipur and Shankarpur. These unprecedented measures aim to ensure free and fair polls in the 2026 assembly elections.
The Election Commission of India issued directives on April 20 banning motorcycle use in West Bengal from 6pm to 6am starting two days before each polling phase, with exemptions only for medical emergencies or family functions. Pillion riding is banned from 6am to 6pm, except for medical needs, family events or school-related transport. These apply from April 21 for Phase 1 polling on April 23 and similarly for Phase 2 on April 29. Two-wheeler use in election rallies is completely prohibited.
"In order to ensure free, fair, peaceful and violence-free elections-2026... and to prevent any form of intimidation and source jamming, the restrictions on use of motorcycles are hereby imposed," the directive stated. A senior CEO office official said motorcycles are often used for intimidation, transporting cash or liquor via narrow lanes. This marks the first such restriction in West Bengal's assembly polls history, unlike previous elections or other states.
Tourists and outsiders must vacate coastal resorts in Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpur, Udaipur and Shankarpur by 5pm Tuesday until Phase 1 ends in Purba Medinipur district. No out-of-district residents or political workers can stay in hotels; violations punishable under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 223. Police began loudspeaker announcements Monday night. Officials cited risks of outsiders inciting unrest in Ramnagar constituency.
Trinamool Congress MP Sushmita Dev criticised the measures as "completely clueless," impacting middle-class livelihoods. Zomato delivery partner Sourav Mondal said, "We depend on daily orders... it directly affects our earnings." Swiggy executive Ritwick Chatterjee noted uncertainty for delivery workers. Local officials confirmed strict enforcement with police coordination.
