20 Feb 2024 | 03:52 PM UTC
India: Unionized farmers plan to continue ongoing protests in northern states through late February /update 2
Ongoing farmers' rallies planned to continue in northern states, India, through late February. Increased security, disruptions likely.
Unionized farmers plan to continue their ongoing series of protest campaigns in the northern parts of India through late February. The action aims to secure various concessions, including set minimum prices for agricultural commodities. As of late Feb. 20, organizers continue to hold varying types of demonstrations in several areas, including Noida, and have announced the following details concerning their planned actions:
Feb. 21: Activists will march to New Delhi.
Feb. 23: Protesters plan to gather along the Maha Maya Flyover in Noida, Uttar Pradesh State, before marching toward New Delhi.
Feb. 26-27: Demonstrators will initiate a tractor march from Haridwar and head towards the Ghazipur border.
In recent days, the protest campaign has caused severe transport disruptions along highways leading into the National Capital Region (NCR). Well-attended gatherings continue to draw hundreds of thousands of participants. Isolated incidents of clashes have previously occurred between police and protesters in several areas, including the Shambhu border area in Punjab. Related disruptions, additional demonstrations such as road and rail blockades affecting major urban centers, and further clashes cannot be ruled out over the coming days. Supply chain disruptions are possible during prolonged blockades; transport of essential items such as food, fuel, and medical supplies may be affected. Authorities may reduce inter-state bus services to Delhi as a precaution. Activists could delay or cancel any planned action at short notice. Lingering disruptions may occur after the protests end as services clear their backlogs.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain an increased security presence in the impacted areas, especially in the NCR. Officials previously implemented mobile internet curbs and public gathering restrictions in several areas, including a number of districts in Haryana and Rajasthan. The government may impose further restrictions, including temporary public movement curbs, or expand such measures to encompass additional areas depending on operational needs. Security forces will likely forcibly disperse protesters to enforce gathering bans, resulting in arrests and further clashes. Those traveling to or from Delhi will probably face security checks at checkpoints.
Avoid all protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, non-governmental building. Monitor trusted local media sources for information on protests and route conditions, as organizers may not announce gathering locations in advance. Plan alternative routes avoiding blocked rail lines and roadways. Allow additional travel time near protests. Confirm business appointments and deliveries in advance. Plan for possible delivery delays; confirm road conditions before routing shipments through affected areas. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed all official instructions.
