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60-day prohibitory order in Kolkata's central business district from May 3, ahead of May 4 vote counting
Kolkata Police announced a 60-day prohibitory order in parts of the central business district beginning May 3, 2026, after receiving inputs about possible violent demonstrations. The measure is planned in the lead-up to the May 4 counting of votes in the West Bengal Assembly elections. The prohibition is set to last for 60 days, potentially extending into early July.
Why It Matters
The order aims to maintain public safety and order in a key commercial area during a high-stakes election-counting period, potentially affecting CBD activity and mobility.
Timeline
4 Events
End of 60-day prohibitory order
July 1, 2026
The 60-day prohibitory order from May 3 is set to conclude on July 1, 2026.
May 4, 2026: Assembly vote counting scheduled
May 4, 2026
Counting of votes in the West Bengal Assembly elections is scheduled for May 4, with the prohibitory order in effect in the CBD as a security measure.
Prohibitory orders come into force in CBD
May 3, 2026
An official order implements prohibitory restrictions in designated areas of Kolkata's central business district starting May 3, with the prohibition lasting for 60 days.
Decision to impose 60-day prohibitory orders announced
May 1, 2026
Kolkata Police announced that prohibitory orders would be imposed for 60 days from May 3 in parts of the central business district, after receiving inputs about possible violent demonstrations. The move was described as precaution ahead of the May 4 counting of votes in the Assembly elections.