India: Further political rallies planned in several urban centers through end of May /update 13

Various political parties have planned gatherings in several urban centers through the end of May amid the general election period slated to occur through June 1. In recent weeks, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the primary opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), have rallied in multiple locations. As of May 28, some planned campaigns include the following:

• May 29: BJP National President JP Nadda will hold three rallies across Deoghar, Jharkhand State.

• May 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will gather at Hoshiarpur, Punjab State, before visiting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial at Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu State. Modi is then scheduled to meditate at Dhyan Mandapam in Thekkanthiruvilai, Tamil Nandu State, until June 1. Prominent INC lawmaker Rahul Gandhi is expected to rally in Dumka, Jharkhand State.

Further gatherings of various types, including street marches, are highly probable by the BJP and other political parties. Additionally, unionized farmers could intensify their sporadic protest campaigns to publicize their perceived grievances with existing agricultural policies. Counterdemonstrations are possible and may coincide with other prior gatherings. Potential rally sites include sports and university grounds, prominent public squares, and major highways. Well-attended events typically draw hundreds of thousands of participants.

Authorities will likely maintain an increased security posture in several regions across India. The tightest security is likely during events led by Prime Minister Modi. Clashes between police and activists, as well as members of rival political camps, are possible.