In a bid to ensure a fair and influence-free voting environment, the Election Commission (EC) has implemented a strict ban on non-residents staying in hotels across West Bengal constituencies heading to the polls. The order took effect at 6 PM on Tuesday and will remain active until the conclusion of polling on Wednesday.
Key Enforcement Areas
The directive is being most aggressively enforced in major tourist hubs and sensitive districts:
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Coastal Tourist Belt: Hotels in Digha, Shankarpur, Tajpur, and Mandarmani have been ordered to allow only local residents of the Ramnagar Assembly constituency to remain in their rooms.
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Jalpaiguri District: Police have issued formal notices to hospitality establishments citing Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
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Identification Measures: Authorities are conducting sweeps of lodges, guesthouses, and community halls to verify the residency of all guests.
Impact on the Hospitality Sector
The sudden enforcement has sparked significant pushback from hotel owners, particularly the Greater Siliguri Hotelier Welfare Association, which has raised the following concerns:
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Advance Bookings: Many guests have long-standing reservations for family functions or corporate events.
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Legal Liability: Hoteliers are worried about the legal ramifications and financial penalties associated with cancelling bookings made through global online platforms.
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Guest Distress: The association has requested clarity on whether a total evacuation of existing guests is legally mandated, citing the “significant distress” caused to travelers.
Stricter Pre-Poll Regulations
This hotel ban is part of a broader “72-hour Standard Operating Procedure” designed to prevent outsiders from influencing voters. Other restrictions currently in place include:
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Extended Dry Days: The traditional 48-hour liquor ban has been extended to 96 hours.
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Motorbike Curfew: No motorbike movement is allowed between 6 PM and 6 AM for two days prior to polling, except for medical emergencies. Motorbike rallies are strictly prohibited.
Note: The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled for two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the final vote count taking place on May 4.
