Scenes at a counting centre in Kolkata. (Express Photo by Partha Paul)

The Kolkata Police have banned victory processions, rallies, and public celebrations within their jurisdiction on the day of counting for the West Bengal Assembly polls on Monday.

“Victory processions, if any, may be conducted on 5th May, 2026, or thereafter, only after obtaining prior permission from the Officer-in-Charge of the concerned Police Station. All such permitted processions shall strictly adhere to the prevailing rules and guidelines and the conditions imposed in the permission,” the order, signed by Commissioner of Police Ajay Nand, stated.

The Kolkata Police warned that any violation of the directive will result in legal action.…