India: Three more killed in fresh clashes in West Bengal between rival political parties (Aug. 29)

Event

On August 29 in West Bengal state, three more political workers were killed and 15 injured in new clashes in Amdanga (northeast of Kolkata). Members and officials of TMC and CPM parties hurled crude bombs and fired bullets at each other, torching offices of rival political parties, damaging vehicles and ransacking houses. Police forces arrested ten people involved in the violence.

Context

Violent political rallies and demonstrations are frequently staged throughout the country. Historically, West Bengal state, India's fourth-most populous state with nearly 100 million inhabitants, has always been considered as a politically sensitive region, suffering from regular episodes of partisan violence.

Advice

Individuals present in West Bengal state are advised to avoid nonessential travels to districts recently exposed to political violence. Please stay away from political rallies, marches and demonstrations as they may turn violent. Adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.