India: Municipal employees in Delhi continue indefinite strike as of Jan. 15 /update 1

Event

Thousands of workers employed by municipal corporations in Delhi are continuing an indefinite strike as of Jan. 15. Organizers launched the strike Jan. 7 to demand back wages. Participation in the strike is especially high in the North Delhi Municipal Corporation. Service disruptions at municipal government offices are likely to continue throughout Delhi for the duration of the strike. Additional citywide disruptions are likely if significant numbers of medical professionals, sanitation workers, and transport operators join the strike.

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 are likely to hold additional protests in conjunction with the work stoppage. Possible protest venues include municipal government offices and public parks and 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.

Advice

Confirm appointments at municipal government offices throughout Delhi for the duration of the strike. 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.