India: State ruling coalition Maha Vikas Aghadi to strike in Maharashtra State Oct. 11

Event

Members of the state ruling coalition Maha Vikas Aghadi plan to hold a shutdown strike across Maharashtra State Oct. 11. The action is to denounce a fatal alleged vehicle-ramming incident involving a minister of the federal ruling party Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a farmers' rally in Lakhimpur Kheri District, Uttar Pradesh, Oct. 3. Associated demonstrations will likely occur outside government buildings and on prominent roadways and monuments, including in urban centers like Mumbai and Pune. Dozens to hundreds of people will probably participate in each rally that occurs.

Transport and business disruptions are likely at companies or transportation centers affected by the shutdown strike Oct. 11. Authorities will probably heighten security measures at any action site. Localized business and transport disruptions are also likely near any rallies, particularly if demonstrators occupy nearby roads. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Mass arrests may occur, especially if officials consider any demonstrator to violate COVID-19 protocols.

Advice

Avoid any protests in Maharashtra Oct. 11 as a precaution. Seek updated information on rally plans from trusted local contacts and news outlets, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Plan for possible business and transport disruptions. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area. Heed all official transport and security advisories.