India: Protests related to Delhi chief minister's arrest likely to continue nationwide through at least early April /update 2

Protests related to the recent detention of New Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will likely continue nationwide through at least early April. The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) will hold a demonstration over the issue at Ramlila Ground (Maidan) in Delhi from 10:00 March 31. Additional demonstrations of varying types are very likely at various locations across the country over the coming days. Counter-demonstrations are also likely and could coincide with other opposition rallies. On March 26, the opposition Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) surrounded the prime minister's residences in New Delhi and other parts of India, while the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged a protest march in the capital the same day. Similar actions occurred on March 23. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, government buildings, press clubs, public squares, and thoroughfares. The largest turnout will probably materialize in states where the AAP enjoys greater grassroots-level support.

Authorities are maintaining a heightened security posture in certain public spaces of the capital. Officials have invoked Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code, which restricts public gatherings of five or more people and imposes two-year prison sentences for anyone attending an unlawful assembly while armed. Additional measures, including vehicular checks, are possible in the capital and other urban centers depending on operational needs. Security personnel may conduct mass arrests or use force to disperse overly unruly crowds. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between supporters of opposing rival camps, cannot be ruled out. Isolated security incidents, including arson and vandalism, could occur. Associated localized business and transport disruptions are likely.