India: Unionized farmers to observe shutdown strike in several parts of Karnataka State Oct. 11 amid statewide protest activity /update 7

Event

Unionized farmers and related organizations plan to stage a shutdown strike (bandh) in several parts of Karnataka State on Oct. 11. The action is part of an ongoing statewide campaign of protest activity over the sharing of the Kaveri River water with neighboring Tamil Nadu State. On Oct. 11, the shutdown strike will impact local business and transportation services in Ariyalur, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruchi, and Tiruvarur. Previous similar actions have resulted in widespread disruptions, public gathering bans, mass arrests, and isolated clashes. Government offices, freight vehicles, train services, and emergency and essential services usually remain unaffected. However, activists may use force to impose shutdown strikes in rural Karnataka or attack Tamil residences and businesses.

Additional related gatherings of varying types are certain to occur over the coming days. Potential rally sites include the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) offices and other prominent government buildings, water dams, public squares, and thoroughfares. Blockades along highways connecting Karnataka and Tamil Nadu may occur. Although Tamil Nadu previously suspended interstate public buses and freight trucks as a precaution, attacks on other vehicles defying any calls to suspend interstate transport are possible. Participation levels will vary by locale and sponsoring group; pro-Kannada organizations and farmers' unions will likely hold larger gatherings, probably with hundreds of attendees. High participation is likely in urban centers, including Bengaluru and Ballari, Chamarajanagar, Chitradurga, Davangere, Koppal, Mandya, Mysuru, Ramanagara, and Vijayapura. Organizers may change demonstration plans at short notice, particularly due to organizational or law enforcement-related restrictions.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor any such rallies that materialize and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Security personnel may implement enhanced measures, including temporary public gathering restrictions and/or vehicular checks, depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Officials typically maintain an increased security posture, particularly in Tamil-dominated neighborhoods. Clashes between police and activists and between demonstrators and counterprotesters are possible. Demonstrators could march along and/or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid rally routes and demonstration sites due to the threat of violence. Do not navigate roadblocks as demonstrators may attack vehicles. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites, and transport hubs like airports during shutdown strikes. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Confirm road status and transport reservations in advance, especially during shutdown strikes. Heed all official transport and security advisories.