04 Apr 2024 | 04:37 PM UTC
India: Political rallies likely to intensify nationwide through late-April ahead of general elections /update 1
Political rallies likely across India through late-April due to upcoming elections. Tight security likely; transport disruptions possible.
Various political parties are likely to continue holding rallies across India through late-April to mobilize support ahead of the 2024 general elections set to occur in April and May. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition party Indian National Congress (INC) are likely to hold the largest rallies involving tens of thousands of supporters. Authorities will deploy security personnel to guard venues and routes used by prominent campaigners like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, state chief ministers, and INC leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi. Gatherings in urban centers may disrupt transport operations and local businesses. Upcoming notable events include:
April 5: BJP President JP Nadda to attend a rally in Haridwar, Uttarakhand State.
April 6: INC members Sonia Gandhi to hold a rally in Jaipur, Rajasthan State, while Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will address a rally in Hyderabad, Telangana State.
April 6-8: Prime Minister Modi to hold a mega rally on Ambedkar Road in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh State, on April 6 and a rally in Nawada, Bihar State, on April 7. BJP Union Home Minister Amit Shah to hold a rally at Aalo in the West Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh State, on April 6. He will then begin a tour of Tripura State on April 7-8, including a rally in Agartala on April 7.
Other rallies, street marches, and vehicle processions are likely across the country through at least late-April. The tightest security is likely during events led by Prime Minister Modi; reports indicate he may address up to 150 rallies during his campaign trail. The most popular venues for political rallies include sports and university grounds, prominent public squares, and major highways. Well-attended gatherings are likely to prompt security deployments and may cause localized transport disruptions. Clashes between rival party supporters at political events cannot be ruled out, especially in Kerala and West Bengal states. Skirmishes are also possible if police attempt to forcibly disperse disruptive crowds.
Avoid protests and navigating 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.
