Nepal: Leftist parties plan protests at multiple cities Aug. 11 /update 1

Event

Various left-wing political parties plan to protest in multiple cities across Nepal Aug. 11. Participants intend to denounce rising inflation and the newly passed Citizenship Amendment Bill, among others. Affected locations include Butwal, Chitwan, Dhangadhi, Hetauda, Itahari, Janakpur, Jitpursimara, Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, Pokhara, and Surkhet. Likely protest venues include government buildings, public squares, and major roadways. Several dozen to a few hundred people may join each event; activists typically gather from the late morning through afternoon. Various civil, student, and political outfits have demonstrated over similar issues in recent days; additional protests are certain in the coming days.

Authorities will likely monitor protests and may try to forcibly disperse gatherings if they are especially disruptive. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Mass arrests may lead to further retaliatory demonstrations. Arson and vandalism cannot be ruled out, especially during protests in Kathmandu. Protesters may march along or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near gatherings. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently.