Amid the second wave of Covid-19, the Election Commission of India on Thursday has barred the roadshows and cycle/bike rallies for election campaigning in West Bengal.
The decision has been taken under EC's plenary powers under Article 324 to restrict roadshows, pad yatra, and cycle/bike/vehicle rallies with immediate effect.
In its latest order, the apex electoral body has just allowed holding public meetings with not more than 500 people in accordance with the social distancing norms and Covid-19 safety protocol.
However, if certain party's supporters have already been granted permission to conduct roadshows and rallies, it stands withdrawn now. Also, the permission for the public meetings will be modified as per the latest order.
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Taking cognizance of the political parties/ candidates' inappropriate behavior, the EC said, "many political parties/candidates are still not adhering to the prescribed safety norms during public gatherings."
Notably, WB is yet to witness two remaining phases of elections on April 26 and April 29. The voting will be done on May 2.