India: Communist Party of India-Maoist calls for nationwide anniversary events Sept. 21-27

Event

The Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist), an outlawed political party and insurgent organization, has called for nationwide commemorative protests and attacks Sept. 21-27 for its anniversary. Members typically organize shutdown strikes and small-scale attacks targeting transport infrastructure or security forces. The outfit does not have a nationwide presence; participation is likely in around 46 rural districts across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal states. Transport and business disruptions may occur in affected areas.

The CPI-Maoist group does not have significant operational capabilities in urban areas; hence, the strike is unlikely to have security implications for persons operating exclusively in major cities. Insurgents may attempt to attack security personnel, rural government offices, and infrastructure facilities during the strike. Police and paramilitary forces may deploy additional personnel to potential target sites. Clashes between CPI-Maoist fighters and security personnel are possible.

Armed attacks and sabotage targeting businesses and transport operators who do not comply with strike orders are possible. CPI-Maoist rebels have sabotaged long-distance bus operations and train services during previous actions, and similar attacks may recur.

Advice

Exercise maximum caution if operating in rural areas of insurgency-affected districts, including around mines and hydroelectric facilities. Avoid potential targets and areas with large concentrations of security personnel. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving through rural areas where CPI-Maoists have a known presence. To the extent possible, do not travel on trains or roads that pass through Maoist-affected areas, especially at night. Heed all security advisories.