India: Authorities implement additional restrictions in Nuh and parts of Gurugram, Haryana State, as of Aug. 1 /update 1

Event

Authorities have implemented additional restrictions in Nuh and parts of Gurugram, Haryana State, as of Aug. 1 following renewed violence that has occurred between various communities since July 31. On July 31, reports indicate incidents of arson, stone pelting, and vandalism broke out during and after communal clashes ensued at a procession led by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in Nuh. The violence spread to several surrounding areas in Gurugram, Palwal, and Faridabad. The violence has left at least five people dead and several others injured.

As of Aug. 1, officials have imposed a curfew in Nuh, which will reportedly be in effect for a two-day period. Authorities have expanded the existing internet service suspension from Nuh District to encompass additional areas in Gurugram District, including Manesar, Pataudi, and Sohna. While the initial internet suspension in Nuh will be implemented through Aug. 2, officials are likely to extend the existing measure in the impacted regions. Security personnel have also enacted public gathering restrictions of five or more people in several areas, including Nuh District, until further notice. Moreover, the government has temporarily closed educational institutions as a precaution effective Aug. 1. Several businesses shut down operations in the impacted areas on July 31. It remains unclear when both sectors will normalize.

More than 1,000 security personnel have been deployed to secure the affected regions. Officials may extend the existing measures or implement further restrictions, including pedestrian checks, as a precaution or if further violence occurs. Additional demonstrations are possible despite the public gathering restrictions in effect. Potential gathering sites include police stations as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely. Further clashes between police and activists, as well as between members of rival groups, cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Exercise increased caution if operating in the impacted areas of Haryana State. Keep away from concentrations of security personnel. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Avoid all protests. Confirm business appointments, transport reservations, deliveries, and road status. Do not check out of accommodations before confirming onward travel. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed instructions from authorities.