India: Security forces clash with protesters in West Bengal’s Kolkata and Howrah October 8

Event

West Bengal Police clashed with supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BHP) in West Bengal's Kolkata and Howrah on Thursday, October 8, during a planned march towards Nabanna (Howrah), the State Secretariat building of West Bengal, in order to denounce the alleged deterioration in law and order in the state, among other issues. Reports indicate that police broke up the march using tear gas and water cannon after protesters threw bricks and other items at security forces. It was not immediately clear whether there were any casualties as a result of the clashes, although social media sources have indicated that several people were injured.

Further rallies are likely in the coming days, and a heightened security presence and localized travel disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of the rallies.

Advice

Those in West Bengal are advised to monitor the situation, avoid associated demonstrations, and heed instructions issued by local authorities.