India: Local elections to take place in Uttar Pradesh State May 4 and 11

Event

Uttar Pradesh State will hold local body elections May 4 and 11. The first phase of elections will take place May 4 in Agra, Firozabad, Gorakhpur, Jhansi, Lucknow, Mathura, Moradabad, Prayagraj, Saharanpur, and Varanasi, while the second phase will occur May 11 in Aligarh, Ayodhya, Azamgarh, Bareilly, Basti, Chitrakoot, Kanpur, Meerut, and Mirzapur. Polling will take place 07:00-18:00 and vote-counting is set to occur May 13.

Authorities have imposed Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code in Meerut District through June 30. Under Section 144, public gatherings of more than five people are prohibited, as are the possession and use of fireworks. Security personnel may implement additional enhanced measures, including internet and telecommunication service restrictions, depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Officials could expand the existing Section 144 measures and curfew to other areas in the event of additional disruptive gatherings. Officials also closed the border crossing between India and Nepal in Maharajganj District for 48 hours May 2 as a precaution.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence across the state, particularly near polling stations, vote-counting centers, government buildings, and political rallies through May 13. Typical rally venues include prominent public squares, sports grounds, government buildings, and major thoroughfares. Assemblies by major political organizations are likely to attract thousands of participants. Authorities may attempt to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between members of opposing rival political camps, cannot be ruled out. The increased security measures and rallies may prompt associated localized transport and business disruptions.

Advice

Prepare for increased security - potentially including roadblocks and identification checks - in Uttar Pradesh State through at least May 13. Allow additional travel time on polling days; confirm business appointments and transport reservations in advance. Exercise caution near political party offices, rallies, polling stations, interstate checkpoints, and government buildings as a security precaution. If an unruly gathering forms, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Carry valid identification and heed instructions from security personnel.