India: Municipal employees in Delhi continue indefinite strike as of Jan. 22 /update 2

Event

Thousands of workers employed by municipal corporations in Delhi are continuing an indefinite strike as of Jan. 22. Organizers launched the strike Jan. 7 to demand back wages. Nurses and sanitation workers have joined the strike in some areas, prompting healthcare disruptions at some public hospitals and delays in garbage collection. Service disruptions at municipal government offices will also likely continue throughout Delhi for the duration of the strike. Participation in the strike is especially high in the North Delhi Municipal Corporation and the East Delhi Municipal Corporation.

In recent days, striking workers have held protests outside Civic Centre, the Delhi Municipal Corporation Civil Lines Zone Office, and the Deli Chief Minister's official residence. Strike participants and supporters will probably hold additional protests in conjunction with the work stoppage. Possible protest venues include city government offices, public parks, and prominent squares. Demonstrations could prompt localized ground transport disruptions. Police may deploy to protest venues and forcibly disperse participants amid ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) gathering restrictions. Clashes between police and demonstrators are possible.

The strike has disrupted sanitation services in parts of northern and eastern Delhi. Increased garbage buildup is likely in many areas of the city for the duration of the labor action. Significant refuse accumulation may prompt some localized road transport disruptions on narrow streets.

Advice

Confirm appointments at municipal government offices throughout Delhi for the duration of the strike. Reconfirm medical appointments as a precaution. Avoid all protests as a precaution. Check with trusted local contacts for updates on potential protests. Allow additional time for transportation near any protest venues.