India: Bharatiya Janata Party plans protest march in Kolkata, West Bengal State, Nov. 21

Event

The women's wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) plans to hold a protest march from College Square to Dharamtala Esplanade in Kolkata the afternoon of Nov. 21. Participants may also attempt to rally outside the West Bengal state assembly building of Bidhan Sabha Bhavan. The action is to denounce recent comments by a lawmaker from the All India Trinamool Congress over Indian President Droupadi Murmu's physical appearance. BJP leaders have led earlier protests over the same issue, criticizing the remark as an affront to tribal groups. The event will likely occur from 14:00. Several dozen to a few hundred people could join each rally.

Police will likely monitor the march and may attempt to prevent or control especially large and/or disruptive crowds. Clashes between demonstrators and police may occur; officials may use tear gas and water cannons to break up rallies. Authorities may close roadways near the Bidhan Sabha Bhavan as a precaution. Localized transport disruptions are likely.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible violence. Do not navigate roadblocks as a precaution. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately for a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time along the rally route. Confirm transport reservations and road status in the affected area. Heed all security and traffic advisories.