India: Municipal employees in Delhi launch indefinite strike Jan. 7

Event

Thousands of workers employed by municipal corporations in Delhi launched an indefinite strike Jan. 7. The work stoppage is aimed at securing back wages. Participation in the strike is especially high in the North Delhi Municipal Corporation. If prolonged, the strike could disrupt services at municipal government offices throughout Delhi. Additional, citywide disruptions are likely if groups such as medical professionals, sanitation workers, and transport operators join the strike.

Striking workers held a protest outside the Delhi Municipal Corporation Civil Lines Zone Office Jan. 7. Strike participants and supporters are likely to hold additional protests in conjunction with the work stoppage. Possible protest venues include municipal government offices, along with public parks and squares. Demonstrations could prompt localized ground transport disruptions. Police may deploy to protest venues and forcibly disperse participants amid ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) gathering restrictions. Clashes between police and demonstrators are possible.

Advice

Confirm appointments at municipal government offices throughout Delhi for the duration of the strike. Avoid all protests as a precaution. Check with trusted local contacts for updates on potential protests. Allow additional time for transportation near any protest venues