India: Officials relax some measures in Udaipur District, Rajasthan State, as of July 4 amid reduced civil unrest /update 2

Event

Authorities have relaxed some security measures in Udaipur District, Rajasthan State, as of July 4. Officials have allowed mobile internet services to resume and relaxed the curfew between 08:00-20:00 in affected areas July 4. Officials may further relax the curfew in the coming days. An indefinite curfew was imposed June 28 in the Amba Mata, Bhupalpura, Dhan Mandi, Ghanta Ghar, Hathi Pole, Savina, and Suraj Pole precincts. Officials eased the measures amid reduced civil unrest related to the June 28 killing of a local. He was murdered for his support for a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson accused of blasphemous comments about the Muslim Prophet Muhammad.

Further protests denouncing the murder are possible in the coming days. Popular rally sites include religious sites, major intersections, public squares, government buildings, and political party offices. The BJP and Hindu groups may also call for additional shutdown strikes. Moderate to high participation of local businesses is likely; transport services may be limited during the strike.

Protesters may clash with police; arson and vandalism cannot be ruled out. Security forces may forcibly disperse gatherings defying ongoing orders banning most public assembly, resulting in retaliatory demonstrations. Violence between religious communities may occur, especially in the lead-up to and during the Muslim observance of Eid al-Adha July 10. Local business closures and enhanced security measures such as widespread controls on movement and telecommunication services are possible if significant violence occurs.

Udaipur is approximately 200 km (124 miles) southeast of Jodhpur.

Context

Police have arrested two people who admitted to planning and committing the murder in videos circulated on social media, as well as two other accomplices. Counter-terror officials are investigating the case, as the accused issued death threats to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the videos.

Advice

If operating in Udaipur, exercise caution until the security situation stabilizes. Confirm business appointments, road status, and transport reservations in advance. Avoid all protests as a security precaution. Do not navigate roadblocks as protestors may react violently. Monitor trusted local media for updates on planned demonstrations as organizers may not announce them in advance. Allow additional travel time near rally venues. Heed official instructions including curfew orders; remain non-confrontational and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.