22 Sep 2023 | 01:23 PM UTC
India: Bharatiya Janata Party to rally in Shimla Sept. 25
Bharatiya Janata Party to surround Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly building in Shimla, India, Sept. 25. Increased security likely.
Event
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will surround (gherao) the Himachal Pradesh State Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) building in Shimla on Sept. 25 as an act of protest. Organizers seek to denounce the existing state government's policies as lawmakers convene during the last day of the "Monsoon" budget planning session. Similar well-attended rallies have previously drawn hundreds of participants.
Additional gatherings are possible in Shimla, especially near other prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Authorities will likely monitor any such rallies that materialize and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. While such gatherings will likely remain peaceful, isolated clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.
Advice
Avoid any demonstration that materializes as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
