Authorities in Mandya, a district in southern India, have banned alcohol sales for one day and increased police presence ahead of a statewide protest over a water-sharing dispute between two Indian states.
The ban applies to liquor shops, bars and restaurants serving alcohol in four areas: K.R. Pet, Srirangapatna, Maddur and Mandya.
The authorities have also prohibited the sale, transport and storage of alcohol during the restriction.
Officials say the measures are intended to reduce the risk of violence and other public-order problems during the protests.
Police have placed Mandya city on high alert, particularly around Sanjay Circle, where large demonstrations are expected. Additional police officers and reserve forces have been deployed to control crowds and respond to emergencies.
The protests are linked to a long-running dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, two neighboring states in southern India, over the sharing of water from the Cauvery River.
A water authority has directed Karnataka to release 12,000 cubic feet of water per second to Tamil Nadu for 15 days.
Protesters in Karnataka oppose the order, saying the state is already facing water shortages that affect drinking water and farming.
Mandya is a key area in the dispute and is expected to see significant protest activity.
Authorities have urged residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with police during the protest. Security forces will continue monitoring areas considered vulnerable to unrest.
