India: Unionized state government employees to hold protest march in Kolkata May 6

Event

State government workers affiliated with the Sangrami Joutha Mancha plan to protest in Kolkata, 14:00-17:00 May 6. The action is part of an ongoing series of protests demanding hikes in their dearness allowance. The march will occur between Kalighat Fire Station and Hazra More, passing Harish Mukherjee, Ashutosh Mukherjee, and S P Mukherjee roads. A local court granted permission for the event, exempting it from an ongoing gathering ban in parts of the route. Clashes are especially likely if protesters attempt to breach security cordons around the chief ministerial residence in the vicinity.

Security deployment is certain along the march route, and at sensitive government buildings in the area. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to the march; officials may impose road closures and/or traffic diversions to facilitate security arrangements. Police typically use force to disperse antigovernmental protests, potentially prompting clashes.

Advice

Avoid all protests; allow additional travel time near potential march routes. Monitor trusted local sources for updates on rallies and related disruptions, as organizers may not announce time or location details in advance. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area.