India: Political rallies, related disruptions likely in Maharashtra State through mid-November in lead-up to Nov. 20 elections

Political protests and related disruptions to local businesses and transportation services are likely to occur in Maharashtra in the lead-up to the Nov. 20 Legislative Assembly elections. As of Nov. 1, major political parties, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC), will stage rallies to mobilize grassroots support.

The BJP plans to organize over 100 rallies, with several party leaders and senior lawmakers leading various public gatherings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in eight rallies in multiple locations, including the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. On Nov. 6, the INC and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) parties will host a public rally at the Bandra Kurla Complex in the evening, and senior INC leader and lawmaker Rahul Gandhi will visit Nagpur.

Political parties and other groups are likely to hold additional demonstrations of varying types, including sit-ins and marches, over the coming days. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, government buildings, stadiums, public squares, and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings could draw tens of thousands of participants.

Officials will likely monitor any rallies that occur and may use force to disperse overly unruly crowds. Depending on operational needs, the government could implement enhanced restrictions, including temporary curbs on public movement, internet access, and telecommunications.

The tightest security measures are likely to be in place near rallies attended by the prime minister. Clashes between activists and police, as well as between members of opposing groups, are probable. Isolated security incidents, including arson and vandalism, cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are also likely.