India: Contractual energy workers threaten protest march in Shillong, Meghalaya State, Oct. 17

Event

Contractual workers affiliated with the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) have threatened to hold a protest march from the MeECL office towards the Meghalaya State Secretariat in Shillong Oct. 17. Participants are demanding the state government regularize contractual workers' services and pay overdue wages. Organizers may call off the action at short notice if talks with the government progress. If the protest goes ahead, several dozen to a few hundred people will likely attend the march.

Authorities will likely monitor the protest march and may try to disperse the gathering if it is especially disruptive. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Localized transport disruptions are likely on roadways on and near the march route.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near the protest.