India: Unionized public teachers and government employees to stage demonstrations across Tamil Nadu State Jan. 5

Event

The Joint Action Council of Teachers' Organisations-Government Employees' Organisations (JACTO-GEO) plans to protest at various district headquarters across Tamil Nadu State Jan. 5. The purpose of the action is to press the state government for several demands, including a revision of an old pension scheme. Organizers claim around 500,000 employees will participate statewide; individual well-attended gatherings will likely draw thousands of activists, especially in Chennai and other urban centers.

Activists may hold additional marches or sit-ins at or near government buildings, political party offices, public squares, and monuments, as well as along major thoroughfares. Security personnel will probably monitor larger gatherings. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are possible, especially if participants march along or block roadways.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations and refrain from navigating through roadblocks. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Heed all official security and transport advisories.