15 Feb 2020 | 11:18 PM UTC
India: Bhim Army calls for march in New Delhi on February 16
Bhim Army calls for march in New Delhi on February 16, with "Bharat Bandh" slated for February 23; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions to be expected near march route and related demonstrations
Event
The Bhim Army, a Dalit rights organization fighting caste-based discrimination and violence, is calling for a march in New Delhi on Sunday, February 16. Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhim Army leader, indicated the organization's supporters will march from Mandi House to the Parliament demanding that the Indian government bring forward an ordinance to nullify a recent Supreme Court ruling that deemed states are not required to make caste-based reservations and appointments in public employment and set employment quotas for historically disadvantaged caste groups.
A related "Bharat Bandh" is slated to be held across India on Sunday, February 23.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near the march route and around related demonstrations.
Advice
Individuals in New Delhi and across India are advised to monitor developments, avoid all demonstrations and protests, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
