India: Ongoing nationwide protests and strikes by transport associations likely to persist through at least mid-January /update 2

Ongoing nationwide protests and strikes by several transport associations will likely persist through at least mid-January. The purpose of the action is to denounce an upcoming revision to the Motor Vehicles Act, which activists perceive will disproportionately penalize vehicle operators in hit-and-run cases. Although the All India Motor Transport Congress, a national organization representing road transport workers, reached an agreement with government officials in recent days, various groups continue to stage demonstrations, strikes, and road blockades in parts of Bihar, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra states. In Chhattisgarh State, unionized transport workers reportedly commenced a work stoppage for several hours before withdrawing their action Jan. 11.

Such actions have previously caused widespread transport disruptions and sporadic incidents of violence. Demonstrators have also reportedly blocked and/or attacked non-participating vehicles. Additional disruptions to transport and related business services are highly likely over the coming days. Alternative public transport services will probably face crowding and long wait times due to increased demand; employees will likely experience difficulty reaching workplaces, especially in urban centers. Supply chain disruptions affecting commodities, including food and fuel, and related business disruptions are ongoing.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture near popular protest sites, especially in state capitals and urban centers in northern Indian states, including key interstate highways, government buildings, major traffic intersections, and public squares. Clashes between protesters and security personnel are possible.