In a significant demonstration of political solidarity, members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) staged a protest near the US Consulate in Chennai on Monday. The agitation was aimed at condemning the recent arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the United States government.
Heavy Security and Mass Detentions
Anticipating the demonstration, Chennai police deployed substantial security forces around the consulate premises. The protest, led by senior CPM leaders including state functionary G Ramakrishnan, former Maduravoyal MLA Bheema Rao, and Central Chennai district president Selvam, was part of a nationwide call by the party. When the protesters attempted to march towards the consulate to formally register their condemnation, police intervened to block their path.
The situation escalated as demonstrators blocked the road and began a sit-in protest. Police then moved in to detain the participants. More than 120 CPM members were arrested and transported from the scene using police buses. The action led to brief disruptions in traffic flow in the surrounding area, though normalcy was restored after the detentions.
Condemnation of US "Attack on Sovereignty"
Speaking on the motives behind the protest, leader G Ramakrishnan articulated the party's strong stance. He asserted that the United States' action against Venezuela constituted a direct attack on the nation's sovereignty. Ramakrishnan described the arrest of President Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores, as a "highly condemnable" act.
He further challenged the basis of the US move, stating that the accusations of drug trafficking leveled against the Venezuelan leadership remain unproven. Ramakrishnan also turned his criticism towards the Indian government, expressing disappointment over its silence on the issue.
Police Action and Law & Order
Chennai police officials clarified that the detentions were a preventive measure. The primary objectives were to avert potential law and order issues and to ensure the free and safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians in the busy consulate area. The protest was organized in response to the nationwide agitation announced by the CPM leadership against the US intervention in Venezuela's internal affairs.
