26 Nov 2024 | 07:55 PM UTC
India: Additional protests likely in Kolkata, West Bengal State, into at least early December
Further protests likely in Kolkata, India, into at least early December following recent arrest of Hindu leader; increased security likely.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and various Hindu organizations will likely continue staging demonstrations in Kolkata, West Bengal State, into at least early December. The purpose of the protest activity is to demand the release of International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was recently arrested in Bangladesh. On Nov. 26, activists held a related gathering outside the West Bengal Legislative Assembly. Additionally, as of early Nov. 27, activists have announced the following planned protest actions:
Nov. 27: BJP Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) will lead a protest march to surround (gherao) the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission starting at 15:00.
Nov. 28: The Hindu Jagran Manch (HJM or Forum for Hindu Awakening) will lead a protest march from Sealdah Station to the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission starting at 14:00.
Additionally, activists have threatened to conduct a protest blockade near the Bangladesh border if their demands are not met. Specific details about the timing and location of the threatened protest action were not immediately available. Related demonstrations of varying types, including marches, are likely over the coming days. Counterdemonstrations could materialize on short notice. Potential sites for additional rallies include the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission and related diplomatic facilities, government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Participation will likely vary by location and sponsoring entity. Well-attended gatherings could attract thousands of participants.
As a precaution, authorities will likely monitor any such gatherings. Depending on operational needs, officials could impose security restrictions. Clashes between police and activists and members of opposing groups cannot be ruled out. Disruptions to local businesses and transport services are likely.
As a precaution, avoid any demonstrations that materialize. Keep away from locations where security personnel appear to be deploying, and leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for localized transport and business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
