India: Authorities increasing security nationwide for Independence Day Aug. 15

Event

Officials are enhancing security in India for Independence Day Aug. 15. The largest celebration will take place at the Red Fort (Lal Qila) in Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the public. Additional flag-raising ceremonies are likely in state capitals, and celebrations will probably occur in district headquarters nationwide. Various separatist, civic, and labor groups have announced demonstrations during the holiday, including shutdown strikes, street marches, and public rallies are possible in some areas. Commemorative events and protests are likely to prompt localized transport disruptions and, possibly, business disruptions and clashes. Notable protests announced are as follows:

• Aug. 9: Various labor groups will demonstrate to mark the anniversary of the Quit India movement, mainly denouncing privatization. Some central trade unions have called for a nationwide labor strike as well as protests in district headquarters and state capitals. Although the work stoppage is unlikely to cause significant disruptions, well-attended demonstrations may cause localized disruptions near governor and/or collector offices.

• Aug. 15: The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha (QIM) of Punjab State, seeking the release of nine Sikh prisoners who are allegedly being detained beyond their prison sentences, will march towards Chandigarh from Mohali's YPS Chowk. Significant inter-regional transport disruptions and violence are possible.

Security forces are monitoring major cities, border districts, and areas with known militant activity. Authorities will also likely enhance protective measures in coastal areas. Increased security and screening measures are likely around possible terror targets, including venues hosting official functions, government buildings, hotels, transport hubs, religious sites, and critical infrastructure. The largest deployments of security forces will be in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Maoist-affected districts in southern and eastern India, and the far northeastern states.

Delhi
Thousands of security personnel will guard the Red Fort. Officials have already banned flying aerial objects in the city through Aug. 16. Authorities have also blocked public access to the Red Fort to prevent demonstrations from impacting the area. Only permitted vehicles will be allowed into the complex. Traffic disruptions are almost certain on roadways along and near related events on Aug. 15. Authorities will also conduct an event rehearsal on Aug. 12, during which officials typically hold rehearsals along sections of the Ring Road through 10:00. Lingering congestion is possible through at least the early afternoon hours Aug. 12.

Jammu and Kashmir
Separatist and Islamist militancy is an ongoing security concern in Jammu and Kashmir. Terror attacks, cross-border violence along the India-Pakistan border, and civil unrest are possible in the region over the holiday. Authorities will probably implement vehicle checks, movement restrictions, and telecommunication service disruptions in preparation for the observance. The threat of armed attacks and protests is most elevated in the Kashmir Valley, with military installations and government buildings at highest risk.

Maoist-Affected Districts
An upsurge of violence is possible in areas affected by Maoist insurgents during the Independence Day celebrations. Ambushes against security personnel and attacks on power, mining, and rail infrastructure are possible, especially in rural parts of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha states. Maoist fighters could target police posts, mines, train stations, and energy installations, including hydroelectric dams. Police may impose road closures and localized curfews if violence erupts, prompting disruptions to transport, business, and communication services.

Northeast India
Shutdown strikes are possible throughout most of Northeast India, including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, and Meghalaya, on Aug. 15. Any strikes that occur could prompt significant commercial and transportation disruptions, especially outside urban centers. Violent attacks - including bombings, grenade attacks, arson, and vandalism - are possible, especially in areas with known militant activity.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations and possible terror target sites due to the threat of violence. Confirm ground transportation reservations, as some regional and long-distance services could be canceled due to security concerns, particularly in Maoist-affected areas and northeastern India. Allow additional time to reach destinations around event venues; re-route time-sensitive consignments to avoid affected routes. Heed all advice of security personnel; be prepared to show identification documents at security checks. Seek updates from trusted local sources on demonstrations and security restrictions, as organizers and authorities may not announce them in advance.

Resources

Delhi Traffic Police