India: Lawyers plan to protest at various court premises in Puducherry and Tamil Nadu State Aug. 21-31

Event

Lawyers affiliated with the Federation of Bar Associations plan to protest in front of various court premises in Puducherry and Tamil Nadu State Aug. 21-31. Protest organizers are calling for the withdrawal of proposed legislation that aims to rename and reform the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Indian Evidence Act. Related protests are likely at the District Court of Puducherry as well as the Madras High Court in Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai. Dozens to a few hundred people could attend each gathering.

Authorities will likely monitor the protests and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Although the actions will likely remain peaceful, minor skirmishes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Related gatherings could lead to disruptions to court proceedings across Puducherry and Tamil Nadu State.

Advice

Plan accordingly for potential disruptions to court proceedings. Avoid the protests due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Heed all official transport and security advisories.