India: Maoists plan to stage shutdown strike across Telangana State Dec. 9

Maoists plan to stage a shutdown strike (bandh) across Telangana State on Dec. 9 to denounce their recent encounters with Indian security personnel. Unless averted, the planned action will almost certainly cause associated transportation and business disruptions. The primarily affected areas will likely include regions with a notable Maoist presence, such as Khammam, Warangal, Adilabad, and parts of Karimnagar.

Related protests are possible. Potential gathering sites include police stations, security checkpoints, infrastructure development sites, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. It remains unclear how many participants the action may draw.

During the shutdown strike, insurgents may attempt to attack security personnel, government offices, development projects, and public infrastructure such as railways in rural areas. Officials will maintain a heightened security presence in Kolhan and surveil key rail lines in the division. Security personnel could be deployed to other areas subject to Maoist militant activity.

Militants could engage in armed attacks and sabotage, targeting businesses and transport operators who do not comply with strike orders. Roadblocks may also occur, as Maoist insurgents have previously sabotaged long-distance bus operations and train services during similar actions. Clashes between militants and police are possible.