05 May 2023 | 11:34 AM UTC
India: Political rallies to continue across Karnataka State through May 8 ahead of state elections /update 2
Campaign events to continue across Karnataka State, India, through May 8 ahead of state elections. Disruptions certain in Bengaluru May 6-7.
Event
Political rallies and associated disruptions continue across Karnataka State as of May 5, ahead of state elections on May 10. The campaign period will end on May 8. Major events are likely by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - which holds power in the state and central government - as well as the opposition Indian National Congress (INC) party. The largest rallies are likely to be those addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of his party, the BJP. Announced events that are likely to attract significant participation, enhanced security, and localized transport disruptions include:
May 6: Modi will hold a roadshow in Bengaluru, 10:00-13:30. His cavalcade will travel from the RBI Ground to Sankey Tank in Malleshwaram, prompting road closures and likely curtailment of public buses in central Bengaluru. He will then address rallies in Badami of Bagalkot District at 16:00 and Haveri District at 19:00.
May 6: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of the BJP will address rallies in Puttur District 12:00, Bantwal District at 13:30, and in Karakala District at 15:00.
May 6: INC former President Sonia Gandhi will hold a rally at the Young Stars Sports Club Ground in Hubli city at 16:30.
May 7: Modi will hold an 8-km roadshow from the Kempe Gowda statue in New Tippasandra to Trinity Circle along M.G. Road in Bengaluru, 10:00-11:30, prompting road closures and traffic diversions. He will then reportedly hold rallies at Yelachagere in Mysuru District at 16:30, and in Shivamogga District at 19:00.
Other campaign rallies will probably take place at prominent public spaces and stadiums, with related demonstrations occurring near government buildings, sports grounds, public squares, and thoroughfares. Participation will vary by locale and political group, with the largest turnouts likely in major urban centers, such as Bengaluru and Mysuru.
Authorities will likely monitor any such gatherings and may disperse overly disruptive crowds. Officials may implement enhanced measures, such as roadblocks and pedestrian checks, especially in the vicinity of BJP rallies attended by Modi and other lawmakers. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between supporters of opposing rival camps, cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions are possible near rally venues through May 8.
Advice
Monitor local sources for election rally announcements; avoid all such events as a standard security precaution. Keep away from any political protests that may materialize; depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for associated localized transport and business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
