07 Aug 2023 | 07:20 AM UTC
India: Authorities extend and modify restrictions in parts of Haryana State, including Nuh and Gurugram districts, through at least Aug. 8 /update 3
Modified security restrictions continue in parts of Haryana State, India, as of Aug. 7 following communal violence. Disruptions likely.
Event
Authorities have extended security restrictions in Nuh and parts of Gurugram, Haryana State, through at least Aug. 8 following incidents of communal violence. Clashes initially started during a July 31 Hindu religious procession in Nuh. Arson, stone pelting, and vandalism broke out, with violence quickly spreading to several surrounding areas through Aug. 2. The violence left at least six people dead, several others injured, over 100 vehicles damaged, and multiple small local business premises torched. Isolated incidents of attacks targeting religious sites and businesses have since occurred.
Gathering bans, as well as a suspension of messaging services and mobile internet, are affecting Nuh District through 23:59 Aug. 8, as well as Palwal District and Ballabargh in Faridabad District through 23:59 Aug. 7. Extensions are likely. Authorities are temporarily lifting an ongoing curfew in the Nuh District for 3-4 hours daily from 09:00 since Aug. 6 to facilitate essential purchases; banking services and government offices have resumed operations on a trial basis from Aug. 7. Similar relaxations may repeat if there are no incidents of fresh violence. Heightened security is likely to continue in the coming days, at least until the Indian Independence Day holiday Aug. 15.
Notably, officials in Gurugram have reopened educational institutions, workplaces, and shopping malls since Aug. 3, stating no fresh security incident has occurred in affected areas, including Manesar, Pataudi, and Sohna. However, some private schools and workplaces in Gurugram are offering telecommuting arrangements until further notice. Educational institutions in Palwal District have reopened Aug. 7 with low attendance, while those in Nuh District remain closed. Transport disruptions are possible along routes connecting Gurugram to other regions, such as Delhi, due to potential protests as well as the reported travel of residents in the outskirts of Gurugram City - mainly involved in domestic services - to their hometowns.
Authorities have deployed more than 1,000 security personnel, including paramilitary personnel, to secure the affected regions. Officials may extend the existing measures or implement further restrictions, including curfews and pedestrian checks, if violence recurs. Additional demonstrations are possible despite the ongoing public gathering restrictions. Potential rally sites include police stations, prominent government buildings, religious sites, public squares, and thoroughfares. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely. Further clashes between police and activists, as well as between members of different religious groups, cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Exercise increased caution if operating in the impacted areas of Haryana State. Keep away from concentrations of security personnel. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Avoid all protests. Confirm business appointments, transport reservations, deliveries, and road status. Do not check out of accommodations before confirming onward travel. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Plan for business disruptions. Heed instructions from authorities.
