India: Demonstrations to be held in Maharashtra state March 28

Event

The right-wing Hindu Shiv Pratishthan Hindustan group has called for demonstrations to take place in Mumbai and Pune on Wednesday, March 28. According to local sources, the demonstrations are being organized to demand the withdrawal of criminal charges against the group's leader, Sambhaji Bhid, who is accused of having incited riots on January 1-2 in Bhima Koregaon. Demonstrators are expected to march between Jijamata Udyan and Azad Maidan in Mumbai, and between Shaniwar Wada and District Collectorate in Pune.

An increased security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be anticipated in the vicinity of any gatherings.

Context

Protests broke out on January 2 after a member of the Dalit community was killed during commemorative events on January 1, marking the 200th anniversary of the battle of Bhima Koregaon. Violent clashes broke out between the Dalit demonstrators and right-wing Hindu groups that opposed the celebrations. On January 1, 1818, British East India Company forces, supported by soldiers from the Mahar community, defeated the army of Peshwa Baji Rao II, the last ruler of the Maratha Empire.

Advice

Individuals in Maharashtra state are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and allow additional time to travel.