India: Police disperse student protest in Delhi January 9 /update 3

Event

Students from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi reportedly clashed with police as they attempted to march to Rashtrapati Bhawan on Thursday, January 9, to denounce a violent attack on JNU students and staff during a protest on January 5, and to demand the removal of JNU's Vice Chancellor over perceived inaction following the incident. Police detained several protesters and used batons to disperse a group of students blocking traffic on Janpath Road. One student was reportedly injured in the clashes.

Further related protests are possible in Delhi and other major urban areas across India in the coming days and weeks.

Context

On Sunday, January 5, approximately 50 masked assailants attacked students and staff at JNU, throwing stones and vandalizing property. At least a dozen individuals were wounded in the assault. Several opposition politicians have claimed that the leading Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is responsible for the mob attack.

JNU students have been protesting a fee price hike since it was announced on November 12, as well as more recently participating in anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) demonstrations. 

Advice

Individuals in Delhi, and India in general, are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as violence may flare up without warning, and prepare for widespread disruptions to transportation, business, and telecommunications in protest-affected areas. If a demonstration is organized without warning, individuals are advised to refrain from crossing roadblocks, take shelter in a safe place, and avoid taking pictures. Travelers should adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities (especially if curfews are enforced) and their home governments.