India: Demonstrations planned nationwide September 17-22

Event

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI (M)) has called for protests to occur across India between Thursday, September 17, and Tuesday, September 22, in opposition to the Indian government's alleged poor treatment of minorities and to demand financial assistance for poor households. The CPI (M) has not released any information regarding venues; however, protests may occur near the party's offices, government buildings, and public spaces, particularly in Kerala state where the CPI (M) has relatively higher support than other areas of India.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near the protest sites. Police may disperse the protests on the ground that large gatherings remain prohibited in India under coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions.

Advice

Individuals are to avoid all demonstrations and gatherings in order to mitigate the risk of exposure to unruly crowd behavior, incidental violence, and opportunistic crime. Monitor local media sources for further updates on demonstrations and any associated overland disruption.