India: Farmers’ groups to march from Azad Maidan to Raj Bhavan in Mumbai Jan. 25

Event

Farmer groups plan to hold a protest march from Mumbai's Azad Maidan to the Raj Bhavan Jan. 25 over recently passed agriculture laws. Political parties will also join the action in solidarity with activists demonstrating in and around Delhi over the issue since November 2020. Thousands of protesters will likely participate in the march, prompting increased security and traffic disruptions in southern Mumbai. Organizers have not announced a starting time for the march, but it may occur from late morning through the evening of Jan. 25.

Security personnel will almost certainly monitor protesters and may try to break up the procession if it is especially disruptive. Clashes between security forces and protesters are possible, especially if police forcibly attempt to disperse demonstrators. The march will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in southern Mumbai; roads likely to be affected include Maharshi Karve or Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose roads. Police will likely divert traffic from affected areas.

Advice

Monitor local news sources for updates on the protests and road conditions, as organizers may not announce details in advance. Avoid the march due to the possibility of violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Heed all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near the protest.