23 May 2021 | 08:10 PM UTC
India: SKM calls for nationwide protests May 26 /update 1
SKM calls for protests throughout India on May 26. Increased security, localized disruptions likely near rallies.
Event
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella organization representing dozens of farmers' groups, has called for nationwide protests May 26. The purpose of the action is to protest controversial agricultural laws and to mark six months of the group's ongoing protest in the National Capital Region (NCR). Participation in the protests, along with related localized disruptions, will likely be high in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Participation in the May 26 demonstrations will likely vary considerably by location; larger protests may involve thousands of people.
Security personnel will likely monitor protests. Officers may attempt to enforce coronavirus disease (COVID-19) gathering restrictions in some locations. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators are possible, especially if police forcibly attempt to disperse protesters. Demonstrators may block or march along roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Business disruptions are also possible, especially if violence breaks out.
Context
Several farmer organizations and opposition parties claim that three agricultural amendments passed in September 2020 favor corporate interests over local growers. The central government maintains that the legislation will improve agricultural income by expanding direct market participation for farmers while continuing existing protections in state-run markets. A coalition of farmers' unions - mainly from Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh states - has been holding disruptive protests and blocking the borders of Delhi in multiple areas since Nov. 25 amid unsuccessful negotiations with central government ministers. Related unrest is likely to continue in the short term and could result in sporadic clashes. Intermittent talks between farmers' groups and central government officials will likely continue, and a negotiated settlement to the dispute remains possible.
Advice
Monitor local media sources for updates on protests and road conditions, as organizers may not announce demonstration locations in advance. Avoid all gatherings to due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed all security personnel instructions.
