India: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) to stage shutdown strike across Andhra Pradesh State Sept. 11

Event

Activists affiliated with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) will stage a shutdown strike (bandh) in Andhra Pradesh State Sept. 11. The purpose of the action is to denounce the Sept. 10 detention of a TDP leader and former chief minister concerning an alleged corruption scam; the TDP leader faces a two-week detention. Unless averted, the shutdown strike will likely cause some associated minor localized transport and business disruptions to varying degrees across the state. TDP leaders have asked local residents and other groups to participate in the planned shutdown strike.

Related demonstrations are likely to occur on Sept. 11. Potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, public squares, sports grounds, press clubs, and thoroughfares. While participation will probably vary by locale, well-attended rallies are likely to take place in major urban centers, such as Amaravati, Visakhapatnam, and Vijayawada. Authorities will almost certainly monitor any such gatherings that materialize as a precaution and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between groups of opposing rival camps, cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along and/or block roadways, prompting further localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Confirm transport and business appointments in advance. Avoid any demonstration that materializes as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Heed all official transport and security advisories.