12 Apr 2018 | 09:32 AM UTC
India: Protests in Chennai (Tamil Nadu) April 12 amid PM visit
Protests by local parties and civil groups held in Chennai April 12 amid visit by PM Narendra Modi; expect an important security presence and road restrictions
Event
Protests were held by various local Tamil Nadu parties and civil society movements in Chennai (south) on the morning of Thursday, April 12, coinciding with the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi is in the city to address the DefenceExpo2018 on Thursday. Security forces have cordoned off several parts of the city to contain protests against a recent government decision related to access to water (Cauvery). Police have tightened security measures in and around Chennai Airport (MAA), where a mass of protesters blocked the road leading to the facility forcing Modi to travel instead by helicopter. The police have also detained 200 protesters.
Context
Public anger in Tamil Nadu has been high since March 29, when the central government failed to establish a neutral body to oversee the sharing of Cauvery River waters between the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Advice
Individuals present in Chennai are advised to anticipate a larger than usual security presence and road restrictions, stay away from protests and public gatherings, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities
