India: Bharatiya Janata Party holding 12-hour shutdown strike in northern districts of West Bengal State April 28

Event

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is holding a shutdown strike across the Jalpaiguri and Malda divisions of West Bengal State, 06:00-18:00 April 28. Participants intend to denounce the April 26 death of a BJP worker purportedly caused by police firing during protests near Uttar Dinajpur District's Kaliaganj. A gathering ban under Section 144 orders and the suspension of mobile internet services are active in Kaliaganj until further notice, after violent protests broke out after the death of a girl April 21; locals claim police are not fairly investigating her alleged rape. Commercial and transport service disruptions are possible in the affected districts of Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Dakshin Dinajpur, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Malda, Murshidabad, and Uttar Dinajpur; the highest participation in the strike is likely in Uttar Dinajpur District.

Activists may engage in the forcible closure of local businesses, arson, vandalism, and attacks on non-participating establishments during the strike. Related protests denouncing the crime and demanding justice for alleged perpetrators are likely in the coming days. The largest protests are probable near Kaliaganj. Likely protest sites include police and government buildings, public squares, and major roadways. Protests may involve dozens to a few hundred people.

Authorities will likely monitor protests and may try to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Protesters may march along or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Expansion of internet curbs and imposition of movement restrictions are possible if significant violence occurs.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near gatherings. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Confirm business appointments and transport schedules in advance.