27 Oct 2022 | 06:10 AM UTC
India: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) calls for 12-hour shutdown strike in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu State, from 06:00 Oct. 31
Activists plan shutdown strike in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Oct. 31. Protests likely. Localized disruptions, clashes possible.
Event
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a shutdown strike across Coimbatore city in Tamil Nadu State 06:00-18:00 Oct. 31. Organizers are denouncing the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for alleged security lapses related to a vehicle explosion near a prominent Hindu temple in Coimbatore Oct. 23. Moderate to high participation by local businesses is likely. The action does not include transport services. The operations of multinational companies will probably be unaffected.
Supporters will likely stage related protests during the strike. Popular gathering sites include government buildings such as the district collector office, public squares, and major intersections. Several dozen people may join each event; localized transport disruptions are possible if demonstrators block or march on roadways. Security personnel typically deploy to monitor large gatherings and may forcibly disperse disruptive crowds. Protestors may clash with police or rival groups.
Context
A vehicle explosion occurred near a Hindu temple in Ukkadam, Oct. 23, on the eve of the Hindu festival Deepavali/Diwali. The car driver died; there were no other casualties. The incident prompted opposition parties to criticize the DMK government for alleged intelligence failures and investigative delays. Police have since arrested at least five accomplices of the driver and seized explosive materials from his house. The state government has also turned over the case to the National Investigation Agency for suspected terror and transnational radicalization links.
Advice
Confirm business appointments, transport reservations, and road status for the duration of the strike. Avoid protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Allow additional travel time near protests. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
