11 Mar 2024 | 12:23 PM UTC
India: Indian National Congress marches planned in Maharashtra State March 12-17 /update 5
Opposition marches planned in parts of Maharashtra State, India, March 12-17; increased security, limited disruptions likely.
The Indian National Congress (INC) party will hold marches in Maharashtra State March 12-17. The action aims to mobilize support for INC ahead of the 2024 general election. Prominent INC member Rahul Gandhi will lead attendees alongside other prominent political figures. Hundreds of supporters will participate on foot and in vehicles. Districts with planned stops for roadshows and/or rallies are:
March 12: Nandurbar, Maharashtra State
March 13: Dhule, Maharashtra State
March 14: Malegaon, Maharashtra State.
March 15: Nashik, Maharashtra State
March 16: Mumbai, Maharashtra State
March 17: Chaityabhoomi, Mumbai, Maharashtra State. After the march concludes, Rahul Gandhi set to address the rally in Mumbai's Shivaji Park.
Demonstrations are likely at or near public grounds, stadiums, thoroughfares, public squares, and university campuses; rallies typically occur from late morning to late afternoon. Event venues may change at short notice due to logistical issues or police curbs. Major cities are unlikely to face significant disruptions. Security deployments are likely at the events. Skirmishes are possible if police attempt to disperse disruptive crowds forcibly; isolated clashes have occurred in similar rallies. Localized transport disruptions, including increased demand for public transport by attendees, may occur during large gatherings.
Avoid protests and roadblocks as a standard security precaution. Allow additional travel time near rallies. Monitor official announcements on additional public gatherings and any road closures. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
The "Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra" march by the INC began in Manipur State on Jan. 14. The route passes Nagaland, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat states before culminating in Mumbai, Maharashtra State, on March 17. In total, 6,713 kilometers (4,172 miles) will be crossed over a period of 66 days.
