India: Protesters clash with police in Rourkela (Odisha state) May 26

Event

On Tuesday, May 26, locals of Rourkela (Odisha state) took to the streets to protest against restrictions in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). India has lifted restrictions in different areas dependent on the number of cases of COVID-19, with some areas termed as containment zones and others as buffer zones. In Rourkela locals are angry that in some areas of the city people are freer to go about their business than others. The protesters reportedly pelted police with stones and ransacked a temporary police camp. A journalist was also allegedly assaulted by the crowd. Police responded to the violence by firing tear gas at the crowd and charging at them with batons to disperse them.

Further unrest over the issue is possible in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in Rourkela and the surrounding area are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions in the vicinity of any future protests, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.