India: Heightened tensions and demonstrations likely to continue in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal State, through at least early March /update 2

Heightened tensions and civil unrest will likely persist in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal State, through at least early March following a recent spate of disruptive protests in the area. Clashes initially erupted during the first week of February between supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) amid local grievances over alleged criminal acts committed by TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh. In recent days, activists have rallied in several locations, committed acts of arson, and assaulted TMC leader Ajit Maity and ransacked his residence. These latest incidents of civil unrest come after authorities imposed public gathering restrictions in the area through Feb. 19 in response to earlier protest activity and clashes between demonstrators and police.

Authorities are maintaining an increased security presence near impacted locations in Sandeshkhali. Additional security restrictions and clashes between police and activists, or between groups of rival activists, cannot be ruled out. Further security incidents, including targeted or retaliatory assaults on local politicians affiliated with various parties, are possible over the short term. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely.