15 Apr 2024 | 02:14 PM UTC
India: Increased security measures and mass gatherings to take place nationwide April 17 to commemorate Ram Navami Hindu festival
Tight security and mass gatherings to occur in India April 17 to observe Ram Navami Hindu festival. Communal violence possible.
Increased security measures and mass gatherings are scheduled to occur in several parts of India on April 17 during the annual Ram Navami Hindu festival. Official religious events, including processions, will take place in various urban centers, such as Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh State, Jamshedpur in Jharkhand State, and Patna in Bihar State. Typical gathering sites include major temples, cultural centers, and thoroughfares. Larger gatherings have previously drawn hundreds of thousands of attendees.
Authorities will maintain an increased security presence at several locations near such official events, especially in Ayodhya. Enhanced security restrictions, including temporary public movement restrictions, may be enacted as a precaution or in response to potential incidents. Related demonstrations are possible by opposing religious communities. Clashes between different religious groups or between individuals and police cannot be ruled out. Isolated security incidents are possible. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are highly likely.
Exercise increased caution. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for potential localized business and transport disruptions. Carry proper identification documents at all times. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
Ram Navami is an annual Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, a significant deity in Hinduism. It typically involves religious processions, prayers, and gatherings at temples across India. However, due to historical tensions between religious communities, such events have been marred by incidents of communal violence, prompting authorities to implement heightened security measures during the festivities.
