In pictures: DMK and allies lead massive rally against Citizenship Amendment Act in Chennai

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and its allies led a massive rally against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Chennai today. The rally was attended by DMK chief MK Stalin, Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi, Congress leader P Chidambaram, Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam founder Vaiko, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi leader Thol Thirumavalavan, and representatives from the CPI, CPI(M), the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam and others.

The Times of India said the police estimated the crowd to include about 15,000 people, while the DMK said the protest was attended by lakhs.

Late last night, the Madras High Court heard a public interest litigation asking for an interim injunction against the “unlawful” demonstration, citing it would “endanger public life”. Justices S Vaidyanathan and PT Asha said protests cannot be “stifled” in a democracy, but directed the government and police to use drones to videograph rallies against the Act that had not received police permission.

Addressing the crowds, Stalin said, “We must not stop till the Centre withdraws the CAA and a massive protest against Centre will be announced after consultation of the alliance parties.”

Here are some images from today’s protest.

Photos: Vinay Aravind.