Those planning to zoom through the busy streets of West Bengal the next two days might need to check the rules first. For the next 48 hours, authorities have issued a ‘silence period’ before the phase 1 voting on April 23, effectively banning the use of motorcycles from 6 am to 6 pm.

The Chief Electoral Officer has issued a high-decibel notification aimed at keeping peace and preventing “bike intimidation” during the Assembly polls. The police and other authorities have been informed of the new rules.

Here is everything you need to know about the ban, so your bikes don’t end up at the nearest police stations.

Effective immediately, there is a blanket ban on all motorbike rallies, be it a political show of strength or a large group riding together. The goal? To prevent “source jamming” and ensure voters don’t feel intimidated by large convoys.

Planning a late-night ride? A complete no go. From Polling Day-2 onwards, riding a bike is strictly prohibited between 6 pm and 6 am.

Exceptions: Bikes are allowed in case of medical urgencies or family events.

Even during the day, when motorbikes are permitted, pillion riders are not.

Exception: Permitted in case of medical emergencies, family events, or dropping or picking kids from schools.

On election day, pillion riders are allowed, but strictly to visit the polling booths or other emergencies. To travel for other reasons, one needs to obtain written permission from the local police station.

The ECI claims by limiting bike movement, it aims to prevent rapid-response groups from causing disruptions or harassing voters — ensuring free and fair elections.