India: Ongoing protest in Mumbai against JNU attack January 6

Event

Several hundred students are protesting at the Gateway of India in Mumbai as of 08:00 (local time) on Monday, January 6, to denounce the violent attack on students and staff at Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday, January 5. According to activists on social media, protesters intend to stay indefinitely.

Another demonstration is due to take place at 16:00 on Monday at Hutatma Chowk (Mumbai). 

Approximately 50 masked assailants attacked students and staff in JNU at around 18:30 on Sunday, throwing stones and vandalizing property. At least a dozen individuals were injured in the assault. Several opposition politicians have claimed that the leading Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is responsible for the mob attack. 

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near the protest site. Further similar protests are possible in university campuses and other major urban areas across India in the coming days and weeks. 

Context

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 Mumbai, and in India more generally, 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.