India: All India Trinamool Congress to stage protests across West Bengal State Aug. 6

Event

The ruling All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) party will stage protests across West Bengal on Aug. 6 to denounce the central government's alleged lack of sufficient budget allocation for the state, among other things. As a part of their action, organizers will reportedly hold block-level sit-in protests across the state from 12:00-16:00. Potential gathering sites include residences and offices of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) affiliates, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Participation will probably vary by locale, though the highest turnout will likely occur in major urban centers, such as Kolkata; previous well-attended demonstrations have attracted thousands of participants. Organizers may reschedule or cancel the events at short notice due to organizational and/or legal restrictions.

Authorities will likely monitor the protests and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and activists, as well as among groups of opposing rival camps, cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators could march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible through the evening of Aug. 6.

Context

In mid-July, the AITC announced plans to surround (gherao) the residences of all BJP leaders statewide on Aug. 5 as an act of protest. The Calcutta High Court subsequently prevented the party from legally proceeding with the planned action. As of Aug. 2, the AITC has rescheduled the Aug. 5 demonstrations to Aug. 6.

Advice

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