Ram Navami is an annual event that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh in India. It is observed as a spring festival on the ninth day of Chaitra (March-April), the first month of the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Ram Navami will be celebrated on Thursday (30 March). Given that Ram Navami will coincide with Ramadan celebrations, authorities are likely to practice heightened security in order to prevent/contain any communal escalations.

In previous years, widespread clashes between Police and religious fundamentalists were reported. Tensions are already high this time owing to the Khalistani Movement in North India and nationwide protests against the disqualification of the Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi as a Member of Parliament (MP). Subsequent outbreak of sporadic demonstrations amid festivities cannot be ruled out, that may affect employees and business organisations in general. Authorities may also undertake special traffic arrangements for crowd management and facilitating passage for processions.

Major Ram Navami Events Across the Country:

• Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh– The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust will commemorate Ram Janma Mahotsav (religious celebrations) in Ayodhya. This festival will be held at several locations, including Ram Ki Paidi (along the bank of River Saryu), and will include many cultural and religious events.
• Hazaribagh, Jharkhand – Political protests have been reported following the government’s decision to restrict the use of loudspeakers during Ram Navami celebrations in the region. Further disruptions over the celebration cannot be ruled out.
• Hyderabad, Telangana – On Thursday (30 March), a Shobha Yatra (religious procession) will begin at 1000 hours from the Akashpuri Hanuman Temple, which is situated on Mangala Hat Market Road in the city.
• Rameshwaram and Chennai, Tamil Nadu – Migration of large number of devotees are anticipated to the Rameshwaram Temple. Additionally, the Arulmigu Kothandaramar Temple in Nandambakkam, a suburb of Chennai is also scheduled to host a grand event.

Key Risks:

Recommendations:

For Organisations:

• Given that processions and possible crowding near temples of Lord Rama are anticipated, employees are advised to cater for travel delays and have alternate routes mapped before travelling.
• As authorities are likely to undertake elaborate traffic and security arrangements, especially in metropolitan cities, commuters are advised to remain abreast of local directives from
  • Ayodhya: @Ayodhya_police
  • Delhi: @DelhiPolice, @Dtptraffic
  • Gurugram: @GurugramPolice, @TrafficGGM
  • Noida: @Noidatraffic
  • Mumbai: @MumbaiPolice, @MTPHereToHelp
  • Pune: @PuneCityTraffic
  • Bengaluru: @BlrCityPolice, @blrcitytraffic
  • Kolkata: @KolkataPolice, @KPTrafficDept
  • Chennai: @chennaipolice_, @ChennaiTraffic
  • Ahmedabad: @AhmedabadPolice, @PoliceAhmedabad
  • Hyderabad: @HYDTP, @Hydcitypolice
• It is noted from earlier instances of communal disturbances that escalations were quite rapid with Police resorting to tear gas, baton-charge, etc., to bring situation under control. Similar disruptions cannot be ruled out this time as well, therefore organisations operating in communally sensitive areas are advised to maintain preparedness for any emergency situation.
• In most civil disruption cases, authorities tend to suspend internet connectivity during security crisis, therefore, organisations and employees are also advised to have adequate charge and balance to make regular phone calls.

For Individuals:

• Given that religious sentiments tend to remain high, especially during festivals, it is advised to refrain from indulging in any religious/political debates, in both online and offline platforms. Utmost caution should be practised while addressing or forwarding any message related to one’s identify or faith on social media platforms.
• While stepping outside, advised to remain vigilant of personal belongings (credit/debit cards, wallet, gadgets) and avoid wearing expensive jewelleries. Ensure that car doors are locked properly.
• In view of previous acts of violence such as stone pelting and arson during Ram Navami, it is advised to keep the car windows closed, especially, near tolls/traffic signals in order to avoid injuries from any such untoward activity.
• In view of the surge of Influenza A H3N2 infections, it is advised to avoid venturing in crowded areas and use masks and if possible, maintain social distancing.
• As street food is increasingly made available during festivities, it is advised to practice extra caution while consuming outside food.