03 Nov 2023 | 04:32 PM UTC
India: Bharatiya Janata Party to protest across Odisha State from Nov. 14
BJP to surround all block-level government offices in Odisha State, India, for five days from Nov. 14. Increased security likely.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) plans to surround (gherao) all block-level government offices in Odisha State for five days from Nov. 14 as an act of protest. The purpose of the action is to denounce alleged corruption claims involving the current Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government. Additional gatherings are possible. Popular protest sites include governmental buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings will probably draw thousands of participants.
Authorities will almost certainly monitor any such gatherings 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 are likely to march along and/or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.
As a precaution, avoid all demonstrations. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm transport and business reservations in advance. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
