India: Farmers likely to continue sporadic protests in parts of Punjab through at least early April

Event

Unionized farmers affiliated with the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC) will likely continue their ongoing campaign of sporadic protests in parts of Punjab through at least early April. On April 2, the KMSC resumed demonstrating to demand several concessions, including compensation for damaged crops due to inclement weather. Participating farmers have also reportedly used tractors to block railways prompting passenger and mail service disruptions at several railroad stations, including Amritsar, Batala, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Verka.

Additional demonstrations will probably take place primarily near railway stations, as well as prominent government buildings such as district collectorate offices, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Other farmers' interest groups may join the ongoing action. Previous demonstrations have attracted hundreds of participants, especially in urban centers like Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Ludhiana.

Authorities will almost certainly heighten security at any gathering sites. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out. Localized train service disruptions are likely on routes targeted by farmers' protests. Activists may march along or block roadways, prompting localized traffic disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.

Context

Various farmer organizations have been staging sporadic demonstrations in Punjab since late 2022 to draw attention to long-standing grievances against the state government and the perceived lack of response to their demands.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Plan for localized transport disruptions and confirm railway schedules. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe, nongovernmental building. Heed all official transport and security advisories.