India: Authorities increasing security nationwide for Independence Day Aug. 15

Officials are enhancing security in India for Independence Day Aug. 15. The largest celebration will take place at the Red Fort (Lal Qila) in Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the public. Additional flag-raising ceremonies are likely in state capitals, and celebrations will probably occur in district headquarters nationwide. Various separatist, civic, and labor groups will probably stage demonstrations during the holiday, including shutdown strikes, street marches, and public rallies. Commemorative events and protests are likely to prompt localized transport disruptions and possible business disruptions and clashes. Notable actions include demonstrations by various labor groups Aug. 9 to mark the anniversary of the Quit India movement, mainly denouncing the government's annual budget.

Security forces are monitoring major cities, border districts, and areas with known militant activity. Authorities will also likely enhance protective measures in coastal areas. Increased security and screening measures are likely around possible terrorist targets, including venues hosting official functions, government buildings, hotels, transport hubs, religious sites, and critical infrastructure. The largest deployments of security forces will be in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Maoist-affected districts in southern and eastern India, and the far northeastern states.

Delhi
Thousands of security personnel will guard the Red Fort. Officials have already banned flying aerial objects in the city through Aug. 16. Authorities have also blocked public access to the Red Fort to prevent demonstrations from impacting the area. Only permitted vehicles can enter the complex. Traffic disruptions are almost certain on roadways along and near related events Aug. 15. Rehearsals in Delhi and major cities across multiple states Aug. 13 will probably prompt security and traffic curbs.

Jammu and Kashmir
Separatist and Islamist militancy is an ongoing security concern in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorist attacks, cross-border violence along the India-Pakistan border, and civil unrest are possible in the region over the holiday. Authorities will probably implement vehicle checks, movement restrictions, and telecommunication service disruptions in preparation for the observance. The threat of armed attacks and protests is most elevated in the Kashmir Valley, with military installations and government buildings at highest risk.

Maoist-Affected Districts
An upsurge of violence is possible in areas affected by Maoist insurgents during the Independence Day celebrations. Ambushes against security personnel and attacks on power, mining, and rail infrastructure are possible, especially in rural parts of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha states. Maoist fighters could target police posts, mines, train stations, and energy installations, including hydroelectric dams. Police may impose road closures and localized curfews if violence erupts, prompting disruptions to transport, business, and communication services.

Northeast India
Shutdown strikes are possible throughout most of Northeast India, including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, and Meghalaya Aug. 15. Any strikes that occur could prompt significant commercial and transportation disruptions, especially outside urban centers. Violent attacks - including bombings, grenade attacks, arson, and vandalism - are possible, especially in areas with known militant activity.