Chennai, Jan 5 (NationPress) Activists from the CPI(M) voiced their condemnation of the US military intervention leading to the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The protest occurred near the US Consulate in Teynampet on Monday, resulting in the detention of approximately 150 demonstrators, including 25 women.

The event was organized to challenge what the party labeled as “imperialist meddling” in Venezuela’s domestic issues.

Protesters gathered on Peters Road in Royapettah, close to the consulate, chanting slogans against the United States and advocating for the recognition of Venezuela’s sovereignty.

The demonstration was spearheaded by prominent party figures such as G. Ramakrishnan, former Maduravoyal MLA Bheema Rao, and Central Chennai district president Selvam.

Party flags and placards denouncing the US actions were prominently displayed as the protesters rallied and attempted to mobilize supporters for a march towards the consulate.

In anticipation of the protest, police implemented extensive security measures in the area.

A significant police presence was deployed along Peters Road and surrounding streets, with metal barricades set up to restrict access to the consulate.

Traffic along the route was temporarily halted as a precautionary measure to prevent any disruptions to public order. Despite multiple warnings from law enforcement and the imposition of restrictions, the demonstrators attempted to advance towards the consulate, reportedly trying to breach barricades, prompting police action.

After brief confrontations and heated exchanges, officers detained the protesters to avert further escalation.

The detained individuals were subsequently transported in police buses to a nearby community hall in Royapettah, where they were held for several hours.

Police officials stated that the detainees were released later the same day after being cautioned against violating prohibitory orders.

Senior police officers asserted that the action was taken solely to ensure public safety and maintain order in a sensitive diplomatic area. “While we respect the right to protest, demonstrations near foreign missions are subject to strict security protocols,” an officer remarked.

Party leaders, however, accused the authorities of stifling democratic dissent and reiterated their demand for India to adopt a firm stance against what they referred to as US aggression in Venezuela.

Later, in a post on X, the party stated, “CPI(M) Control Commission Chairperson G. Ramakrishnan, along with the Secretaries of the North, Central, and South Chennai district committees, and party workers were detained in front of the US consulate in Chennai while protesting the Trump administration's assault on Venezuela and the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro.