01 Dec 2024 | 10:17 PM UTC
India: Protests denouncing discrimination against Hindus in Bangladesh likely nationwide through at least mid-December
Rallies denouncing discrimination against Hindus in Bangladesh likely to continue in India through at least mid-December. Clashes possible.
Protests denouncing discrimination and violence against Hindus in Bangladesh will likely persist across India through at least mid-December. In recent days, various activist groups have organized related demonstrations in several states, including Assam, Tripura, Telangana, and West Bengal. In Sribhumi District, Assam State, the government deployed more than 300 security personnel to prevent activists from reaching the Bangladeshi border during a protest march on Dec. 1. As of early Dec. 2, activists have announced the following planned actions:
Dec. 2: Activists affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will demonstrate near the Petrapole-Benapole border region; thousands of people will likely participate in the protest.
Dec. 3: In Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh State, activists affiliated with the Bangladesh Minority Security Forum will gather near the Company Bagh Bus Stand at 12:00; thousands of people will likely participate in the demonstration.
Dec. 4: The BJP will stage nationwide demonstrations. In Indore, activists claim 400,000 people will participate in a protest. In Shajapur, activists will hold a demonstration at the Chatrapati Shivaji Stadium at 13:00; thousands of people will likely participate in the protest.
Additional, related demonstrations of varying types are highly likely to occur over the coming days. Counterdemonstrations may materialize on short notice. Potential rally sites include prominent government buildings, worship sites, transport hubs, public squares, and thoroughfares. Activists could also assemble near various Bangladeshi diplomatic facilities, such as the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Guwahati, and the Deputy High Commission buildings in Kolkata and Mumbai. The largest gatherings will probably occur in the National Capital Region and in states bordering Bangladesh.
Authorities will likely monitor the rallies and could use force to disperse unruly crowds. Depending on operational needs, officials could impose enhanced security restrictions, including public gathering controls. Clashes between activists and police and members of opposing groups are possible. Isolated security incidents, such as arson and vandalism, cannot be ruled out. Associated localized business and transport disruptions are highly likely. Larger gatherings and related security measures could temporarily disrupt cross-border travel and trade.
Avoid all protests as a standard security precaution. Keep away from locations where security personnel appear to be deploying and leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for potential localized business and transport disruptions. Confirm cross-border travel and trade plans in advance. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
