India: Outlawed Maoist group to observe shutdown strike in parts of Chhattisgarh State April 25

The outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) militant group will observe a shutdown strike (bandh) in multiple parts of Chhattisgarh State on April 25 to denounce their recent encounters with Indian security personnel. The affected states include Kanker, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, and Narayanpur districts. Similar shutdown strikes could occur in other locations. Unless averted, the planned action will almost certainly cause transportation and business operations disruptions. Related protests are possible. Potential gathering sites include police stations, security checkpoints, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Anticipated participation levels remained immediately unclear.

During the shutdown strike, insurgents may attempt to attack security personnel, government offices, development projects, and public infrastructure such as railways in rural areas. Police and paramilitary forces may deploy additional personnel to potential target sites. Possible scenarios include armed attacks and sabotage targeting businesses and transport operators who do not comply with strike orders. Roadblocks may also occur, as Maoist insurgents have previously sabotaged long-distance bus operations and train services during similar actions. Clashes between militants and police are possible.