India: Violence associated with local elections in West Bengal State leaves 10 people dead July 8 /update 2

Event

Clashes between rival political groups have resulted in at least 10 fatalities in West Bengal State July 8. The violence comes amid rural (panchayat) elections, which are underway July 8. The deadly violence occurred between members of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Communist Party of India (Marxist), also known as CPI(M), in Murshidabad, Cooch Behar, Malda, and South 24 Parganas districts. Further violence is possible during and following the elections. Officials will count the votes on July 11.

In addition to the July 8 clashes, several incidents of violence have occurred in various areas, including Barshul, Bhangar, Daspur, Kakdwip, Minakhan, Raninagar, and Shaktinagar in the run-up to the election. The related violence primarily erupted over alleged obstruction of nomination paperwork with several candidates. Officials have imposed public gathering restrictions within 1 km (0.6 miles) of polling centers. Activists may assemble in such areas despite the public gathering ban in effect.

Authorities will maintain a heightened security posture in several parts of the state and will likely deploy near polling centers, government buildings, and police stations. Security personnel will almost certainly monitor any further gatherings and may forcibly disperse overly disruptive crowds. Officials may implement additional enhanced measures, such as roadblocks and/or temporary telecommunication restrictions, as standard precautions or in the event of significant violence.

Further 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.

Context

For several years, local elections in West Bengal have been plagued by low-level clashes and other forms of violence. In 2013, officials deployed security personnel at every polling station in the state. Related disruptions occurred as several activist groups claimed allegations of political malpractices by the ruling party following the vote count. In 2018, widespread violence occurred over similar claims of obstruction of nomination paperwork. The current electoral period does not necessarily indicate an escalation in regional security risks, which remain high.

Advice

Excercise a high degree of caution if operating in or near West Bengal through at least mid-July. 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.