India: Further protests likely in Chennai through at least early January following sexual assault of local student Dec. 23

Further protests denouncing the sexual assault of a local student are likely in Chennai, Tamil Nadu State, through early January. On Dec. 23, two assailants sexually assaulted the student at Anna University. The victim lodged a complaint on Dec. 24, and police arrested the alleged perpetrator on Dec. 25. Multiple groups protested outside Anna University on Dec. 25 and 26, resulting in some localized disruptions; police detained several protesters.

Any further demonstrations that occur are likely to focus on Anna University, but could also occur at popular gathering sites such as near political party offices, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence, especially at Anna University, to facilitate ongoing operations. Officials may also monitor any gatherings that occur. Isolated skirmishes between police and activists cannot be ruled out, and associated localized transport disruptions are likely.