31 Jul 2023 | 07:44 AM UTC
India: Opposition parties plan to stage demonstrations during visit by Prime Minister Modi to Pune Aug. 1
Opposition parties plan protests during prime minister's visit to Pune, India, Aug. 1. Tight security, traffic disruptions almost certain.
Event
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Pune Aug. 1 to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for several projects. Modi will perform rituals at Dagdusheth Mandir at 11:00 before heading to the SP College Ground at 11:45, where he will receive the Lokmanya Tilak National Award at the Sir Parashurambhau College Sports Ground. He will flag off metro trains at 12:45.
Various opposition parties plan to stage demonstrations near event venues to denounce the prime minister for not visiting Manipur State. Leaders and supporters of the opposition coalition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) will rally at Lokmanya Tilak Chowk, though the start time is unclear. Supporters of various opposition parties also plan to stage a protest at the Lokmanya Tilak National Award function. Hundreds of participants could join the gatherings. Additional demonstrations may occur during the visit; possible protest sites include official sites hosting the prime minister, as well as near prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares.
A heightened security deployment is almost certain at event venues and routes used by Prime Minister Modi, leading to localized traffic disruptions. Authorities plan to enforce traffic diversions and road closures in areas of Pune 06:00-15:00 and will likely reroute or curtail public transport serving affected areas. Officials could also impose security cordons and vehicle checks. Increased congestion and traffic delays could occur on alternative routes. Flight disruptions are possible at Pune Airport (PNQ) as the prime minister arrives and departs. Security personnel will likely monitor demonstrations and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds, possibly leading to clashes.
Advice
Exercise caution in the affected areas. Confirm business appointments, road status, flights, and ground transportation reservations through the evening of Aug. 1. Plan accordingly for travel delays and possible business disruptions. Carry proper identification documents to present at security check points. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
