India: Major political rallies expected in New Delhi ahead of elections on May 12 /update 5

Event

Major political rallies by both the incumbent and opposition parties are expected in New Delhi leading up to the sixth round of general elections on Sunday, May 12. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address a big rally at Ramlila Maidan on either May 8, 9, or 10, according to a political party leader. Another rally is also scheduled for Thursday, May 9, in the Shastri Park area. On Monday, May 6, rallies will be held at Bara Tooti in Chandni Chowk, on Tuesday, May 7, near Sultanpur Majra, and on Wednesday, May 8, in North East Delhi district.

A heightened security presence and related traffic disruptions are likely over the coming week near political demonstrations. Associated violence cannot be ruled out.

Context

India is holding general elections for Lok Sabha, the lower house of parliament, from April 11 to May 19. An estimated 900 million Indians are eligible to vote for 543 seats in seven phases: April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12, and May 19. Votes will be tallied and announced on May 23.

Advice

Individuals in New Delhi are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated business, government, and transportation disruptions, avoid all public gatherings as a precaution, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media.