India: Ongoing protests likely to persist in New Delhi through at least early June /update 2

Event

Ongoing demonstrations are likely to continue in New Delhi through at least early June to demand the arrest of a Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) official who has allegedly engaged in sexual harassment against female wrestlers. As of May 22, a month-long sit-in demonstration continues at the Jantar Mantar observatory. On May 23, activists will lead a candle march toward India Gate from 17:00. The starting point will almost certainly be the observatory; on May 19, a similar protest was organized from Jantar Mantar to Bangla Sahib Gurudwara (Sikh temple). On May 28, various supporters affiliated with farmers' unions and other groups plan to gather outside New Parliament House, coinciding with the inaugural ceremony of the building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the inaugural event.

Additional gatherings are likely over the coming weeks and may intensify if other groups participate in the action. Such rallies could occur at different locations in the city, including the WFI office, prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Authorities will likely continue to monitor such gatherings and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Minor skirmishes between police and activists cannot be ruled out; small-scale scuffles injured an unspecified number of people on May 3. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near the gathering site. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.