India: Farmers plan further actions across Punjab State Oct. 25 and 29 amid ongoing demonstrations /update 2

Farmers' unions and related groups plan to hold road blockades near grain markets across Punjab State 11:00-15:00 Oct. 25. The outfits will also stage sit-in protests outside Deputy Commissioner offices 11:00-15:00 Oct. 29. The demonstrations are part of an ongoing statewide protest campaign denouncing alleged delays in crop procurement; additional gatherings are likely through at least early November. In recent days, activists have staged several rallies, including protests outside residences of local officials and politicians, as well as rail and road blockades. The highest participation is probable in Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Sangrur districts.

Further protests are most likely to occur near offices and residences of lawmakers, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares, including interstate highways. Participation will likely vary by locale, but well-attended gatherings in urban centers could draw thousands of participants. Organizers may also call for shutdown strikes in rural districts.

Authorities will likely monitor any such gatherings. Transport disruptions are especially likely during vehicle processions, street marches, and rail and/or road blockades in urban centers. Officials may implement enhanced security restrictions including security cordons, gathering bans, and temporary public movement curbs to prevent or quell overly disruptive protests. Clashes cannot be ruled out, especially if demonstrators attempt to breach any security cordons around government buildings. Localized business disruptions are possible during any shutdown strike calls, though significant disruptions to urban areas or the operations of multinational corporations are unlikely.