India: Activists may hold additional protests in Delhi following protest July 12

Event

Supporters of multiple political parties may hold protests in Delhi in the coming days to denounce ongoing water shortages occurring in the city. Supporters of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have held protests in recent days blaming the other party for the water shortages. BJP supporters most recently protested outside Delhi Health Minister and AAP member Satyendar Jain’s residence in Saraswati Vihar July 12; police dispersed the gathering with water cannon. Likely protest locations include government buildings, including political party offices, as well as public squares and monuments. Activists previously also held gatherings at the BJP Delhi president’s residence in the Patel Nagar area as well as at residences belonging to other AAP politicians, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Larger protests will likely involve dozens to a few hundred people.

Security personnel will likely monitor protests and will likely try to disperse more disruptive gatherings. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible. Protesters may march along or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near protests. Monitor local news sources for updates on protests and road conditions, as organizers may not announce details in advance.