21 Sep 2024 | 07:53 AM UTC
India: Increased security likely ahead of and during Haryana State legislative assembly elections Oct. 5
Increased security likely ahead of and during legislative assembly elections in Haryana State, India, Oct. 5. Political rallies probable.
The legislative assembly elections are planned for Oct. 5 in Haryana State. Voters will elect the state's 90-seat assembly, and vote counting will occur Oct. 8.
Multiple political parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Indian National Congress (INC), have announced rallies over the coming weeks. The largest gatherings are likely in urban centers like Gurugram, Faridabad, Hisar, Panipat, and Rohtak. High participation is also expected at addresses by top leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Likely event venues include stadiums and public grounds. Rallies will probably involve thousands of people. Some parties may hold protests before and during the election, especially if there are allegations of irregularities.
Farmer unions such as Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) are also likely to organize rallies ahead of the elections. Since Feb. 21, farmers in Haryana have resumed protests demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. Related gatherings of varying types, including road and rail blockades, are possible near the Shambu, Khanauri, and Delhi-Haryana borders, major highways like NH-44 and NH-48, and cities like Jind and Pipli.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence across Haryana, particularly near polling stations, vote-counting centers, government buildings, and political rallies through Oct. 10. The tightest security is likely at events attended by prominent political leaders. While most campaign events will likely pass off peacefully, clashes between rival political groups are possible. Authorities may attempt to disperse disruptive gatherings forcibly. Localized transport disruptions may occur near protest venues, especially if protesters block roadways.
Prepare for increased security - potentially roadblocks and identification checks - in Haryana State through at least Oct. 10. Allow additional travel time on polling day; confirm business appointments and transport reservations in advance. Exercise caution near political party offices, rallies, polling stations, interstate checkpoints, and government buildings as a security precaution. If an unruly gathering forms, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Carry valid identification documents and heed instructions from security personnel.
