Pakistan: Activists plan to stage protests nationwide Jan. 26

Protests to denounce India's Republic Day celebrations are planned to occur across Pakistan Jan. 26. Demonstrations are expected to occur at Chowk Shaheed in Mirpur with political and city elites present. The start time of the protest cannot be confirmed. Additional protests are likely to occur across Pakistan, particularly in Azad Jammu and Kashmir as well as prominent cities. Likely demonstration venues include government buildings, major traffic intersections, and public squares. Well-attended rallies will probably draw thousands of participants.

Authorities will likely monitor any such gatherings that materialize and move to disperse overly unruly crowds. Clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators could march along and/or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.